CHALLENGES IN FABRICATION OF SURFACE COMPOSITES BY FRICTION STIR PROCESSING ROUTE

摘要

Friction stir processing is a newer technique for fabrication of surface composites. Surface composite fabrication by friction stir processing is simpler and offer many advantages as compared to conventional techniques. However, there are many challenges in composite fabrication due to asymmetric material flow and formation of defects. Reinforcement strategies, process parameters and reinforcement properties are key factors in fabrication of surface composites. In this study a newer reinforcement strategy is utilized to fabricate surface composites by pre-mixing the reinforcement particles with base alloy powders. The pre-mixing of ceramic reinforcement particles with metallic base alloy powder enhances the material flow and favours the uniform distribution of reinforcement particles.