Microstructure and tribological properties of Al–Pb alloy modified by high current pulsed electron beam

In the present work, Al–Pb alloy was irradiated by high current pulsed electron beam. X-ray diffractometer, electronic probe microanalysis, scanning electron microscopy and Knoop hardness indentation were used to characterize the microstructure and mechanical property of Al–Pb alloy. The results show that the microstructure and mechanical property can be greatly improved. The tribological properties of high current pulsed electron beam irradiated Al–Pb alloy were investigated under dry sliding conditions using a pin-on-disc type wear testing machine. The overlapped zone beneath the melted zone exhibits good resistance to wear. Optical observation and scanning electron microscopy analysis reveal that the low wear rate and lowest level in coefficient of friction at high load level for irradiated Al–Pb alloy are due to a lubricious tribolayer covering almost the entire worn surface. The wear mode varies from oxidative wear at low load to film spalling at high load and, finally, adhesive wear.