Enhanced mechanical and tribological behavior of Al356 hybrid composites reinforced with TiB ₂ -SiC-Fly ash for automotive applications

Abstract Demands for composite materials in aero lines and automotive applications has risen, because of their mechanical characteristics and high strength-to-weight ratio. We propose to develop an Al + TSF with low density and high strength for automobile applications. This study investigates the developing the Al356 fabrication with TiB 2 , SiC, and fly ash (TSF) at equal wt.% of 6 %, 12 %, 18 %, and 24 % by stir casting process. The mechanical characteristics like UTS and hardness are tested, along with microstructural behavior is analyzed FESEM and the tribological characteristics of the Al356 were examined by pin on disc tribometer. The UTS and hardness of the AMC increased from 120 MPa to 197 MPa and from 67 MPa to 137 MPa with Al + TSF reinforcement. Various weights (15–60 N), sliding speed (0.55–2.2 m s −1 ) and constant sliding distance of 2,500 m were used to test the tribological performance. It reveals that the optimal combination of Al + TSF (18 %) has less wear and friction at constant load 45 N (0.26 and 0.0099478 mm 3 m −1 ), at constant speed 1.65 m s −1 (0.30 and 0.010056 mm 3 m −1 ). The results indicate that Al356-18 % TSF has enhanced mechanical and tribological performance, placing it as a powerful option for automotive applications.