Influence of SiC particle size on the structure and tribological properties of Ni–Co composites

Ni–Co composites incorporated with SiC particles of nano and micron size were produced by electrodeposition. The effect of cobalt content on the particle incorporation, microhardness, surface morphology and tribological behaviour has been studied. The Ni rich Ni–Co composite exhibited enhanced microhardness values. However, no appreciable increase in the microhardness was observed for Co rich Ni–Co–SiC composites. Scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive X-ray analysis and X-ray diffraction studies were used to characterize the coatings. A change in surface morphology, phase structure and SiC incorporation was observed with increase in cobalt content. Pin-on-disc tribo tester was employed to study the wear and friction behaviour of the Ni–Co–SiC coatings. The tribo studies indicated that the wear volume loss was less for micron SiC reinforced Ni–Co composites compared to nano SiC reinforced composites. However, no appreciable variation in the coefficient of friction was observed for both Ni rich and Co rich Ni–Co–SiC composites.