Microstructural, Mechanical, and Tribological Characterization of Functionally Graded AZ31D Magnesium-Based Hybrid Composite (TiC/Carbon Fiber) for Steering Yoke Applications Produced via Powder Metallurgy

Abstract

The research work emphasizes to synthesize an AZ31D magnesium alloy based steering yole composite with reinforcement titanium carbide (TiC) and carbon fiber in weight proportions of  2, 4, 6 and 8 %   using automation equipped powder metallurgy technique. The micro structural implications of AZ31D/TiC/CF steering yoke had undergone through mechanical, microstructural and tribological characterization through the use of specified equipments as per ASTM-391 standardization. With the enhancement of titanium carbide there is a appreciable increase of grain size AZ31D Mg matrix FGM (functional graded material). The TiC has also performed as an prominent element in the momentous changes with regards to microstructural behavior of AZ31D FGM (functionally graded materials) steering yoke composites. The prominent increment in the mechanical and tribological properties is been excellently executed with the increase of addition of carbon fiber of particulate size of 65 microns and the micro hardness of 125VHN and wear rate at its maximum amount of 34 microns operating at 15 m/s is achieved. Further the addition of carbon fiber not only improves the surface properties but also increased the thermal conductivity behavior of FGM. The AZ31D composite with 6% TiC reinforcement depicts that the highest compressive strength of 415.86 MPa. The hardness of AZ31D FGM composite is increased by 32% by the addition of 6% TiC / 8% carbon fiber reinforcement particles. The fractured tensile specimen surfaces of the alloy and the FGM composite are investigated with respect to the fracture failure analysis and depicted that they are capable to withstand a cyclic load of 785 KN. The uniform dispersion of refined TiC and carbon particles and the efficient load distribution between the reinforcements and the matrix elements appears to be playing an extravagant role in the high improved mechanical, micro structural and impact properties of AZ31D functionally gradation composite in turn results in the enhancement of properties of steering yoke used in automobile applications.