Effect of Si content on the dry sliding wear properties of spray-deposited Al–Si alloy

In the present investigation, Al–12Si, Al–20Si and Al–25Si (wt%) alloys were synthesized by spray atomization and deposition technique. The wear resistance of the alloys was studied using a pin-on-disc machine under four loads, namely 8.9, 17.8, 26.7 and 35.6 N. The microstructures, worn surfaces and the debris were analyzed in a scanning electron microscope. It has been found that the effect of Si content on dry sliding wear of spray-deposited Al–Si alloy was associated with applied loads. At lower load (8.9 N), with increasing Si content, the wear rate of the alloy was decreased. At higher load (35.6 N), spray-deposited Al–20Si alloy exhibited superior wear resistance to the Al–12Si and Al–25Si alloys.