Abstract
In this study, ZA27 matrix alloy was reinforced with nano-sized B4C and its wear behavior and mechanical properties were investigated. The samples were produced using the powder metallurgy technique. The reinforcement ratio (0, 0.125, 0.5, 1, 2, and 3% by weight) the internal structure, morphology, and wear surfaces were investigated and by SEM analysis and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). Wear tests were carried out in a dry friction environment using 1, 2, 5, and 10 N loads. The results showed that the increased B4C reinforcement increased the abrasion resistance of the composite samples, especially under 10 N load, the weight loss was 250 mg in the matrix material, while it was measured as 0.023 mg in the 3% B4C reinforced sample. As a result of this, while the B4C reinforcement increased, the weight losses decreased under all loads. Although, all the wear types changed from adhesive to abrasive wear when the adhesive wear mechanism was more dominant for ZA27 alloy and had a lot higher weight loss composites. Essentially, reinforcement with nano B4C particles changed the mechanism to abrasive wear. The increase in nano B4C content resulted in the changing of wear from two-body to three-body abrasion.