Magnesium Matrix Composites under Lubricated Condition

Magnesium matrix composites reinforced by short fibers were prepared by the squeeze-casting infiltration process, and the effect of fiber distribution on the wear properties were discussed. The fibers in magnesium matrix composites were two-dimensional (2-D) distributed after infiltration process, and the composites in different direction exhibited different tribological property. Composite in parallel direction has a deeper worn track than that in perpendicular direction, but the volumetric wear loss of the counter-part (steel ball) by the composite in parallel direction is lower than that of perpendicular direction. The controlling wear mechanism of the composite in perpendicular direction includes: fracture of fibers and abrasive wear of matrix. The pull out and abrasive wear of matrix are the wear mechanism for the composite in parallel direction.