Analysis of stir die cast Al–SiC composite brake drums based on coefficient of friction

The work reported here is to analyze the suitability of Aluminum alloy–Silicon Carbide MMC (Al–SiC MMC) in the automobile brake drum applications in comparison with cast iron (CI) brake drum. A brake drum dynamometer test rig was developed for the purpose. Al–SiC MMC was reinforced with 10% and 15% SiC particle by weight. The effect of heat treatment of the Al–SiC MMC brake drum was also studied. Performance was mainly evaluated on the basis of brake drum coefficient of friction (μ). Scanning electron microscope was also used to study the effect of braking on the sliding surface of the brake drum.