Publication

Abstract : Chopped carbon and basalt fibers were incorporated in an epoxy resin matrix by hand layup method. Three composites were fabricated with a fixed carbon fiber (CF) content (20%) and varying basalt fiber (BF) content (10%, 15%, 20%) along with a pure epoxy composite. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) images ensured uniform distribution of fibers in the matrix. The mechanical properties of the composites were studied and it was seen that the properties increases with increase in fiber content. Composite with 40% fiber content exhibited better hardness, tensile strength and impact strength among other composites. The dry sliding wear behaviour of the composite with better mechanical properties was chosen and wear behaviour was analysed using pin on disc wear tester varying process parameters such as load (15 N, 20 N, 25 N), velocity (0.75 m s−1,1 m s−1,1.25 m s−1) and distance (500 m, 1000 m, 1500 m). Taguchi’s technique was used for performing wear analysis and the optimum parameters for achieving maximum wear resistance was found to be at 15 N, 500 m and 1 m s−1. Analysis of Variance was used to find the effect of parameters on wear rate and it was observed that distance had higher influence on wear rate followed by load and velocity. A regression equation was also developed and confirmation test verified that error percentage in predicting wear rate was less than 6%. FE-SEM images of worn samples were taken and it was understood that breakage and displacement of fibers was the main factor causing wear. The composite exhibited good wear properties making it applicable for low-wear applications.