Wear behavior of Al–Sn alloys with different distribution of Sn dispersoids manipulated by mechanical alloying and sintering

Al–Sn bearing alloys with fine and homogeneous distribution of Sn dispersoids were prepared by sintering the mechanically alloyed Al–Sn powders. The microstructure evolution of the Al–20 wt.%Sn alloy during sintering was examined by using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy. Two typical distributions of Sn phase can be obtained by controlling the sintering temperature. Microhardness indentation and wear test were used to characterize mechanical properties and wear behavior of the alloys. The MA Al–Sn alloy has high hardness and excellent wear performance, which is resulted from its unique microstructure feature.