The Effect of Induction Heat Treatment on Mechanical and Tribological Properties of Si3N4 and Graphene Reinforced Al6061 Matrix Composites

Abstract

In this study, Si3N4 (1-12% by weight) and graphene (0.15-0.45% by weight) reinforced Al6061 matrix composites were produced by the induction heat treatment and powder metallurgy methods. The density, hardness, compressive strength, wear rate, microstructure, and phase structure of the produced composite materials were investigated, respectively. As a result of the tests performed, the densest microstructure, and the best mechanical/tribological properties were obtained in Al6061-9%Si3N4-0.15%graphene composite structure. As a result of the heat treatment studies, it was determined that the mechanical and tribological properties of the induction hot pressed samples after the sintering process improved by similar to 15% compared to only sintered samples.