Temperature and velocity transitions in dry sliding wear of Al–Li/SiC composites

Transition between mild and severe wear has been observed in Al-8090 aluminium alloy and Al-8090–SiC composite. The transition is characterized by an abrupt increase in the wear rate and a change in the size, morphology and composition of the wear debris. In addition, mechanically mixed layers were formed during the wear process on the top of the worn surface. Critical sliding velocity and temperature has been determined as a function of normal load. A single transition diagram was determined including the effect of load, temperature and sliding speed using a unified parameter.