Optimization of AlSi–CNTs functionally graded material composites for engine piston rings

• Composites reinforced by carbon nanotubes (CNT) were produced by hot-pressing.
• A good compromise between mechanical properties and wear is obtained at 2 wt%CNT.
• The AlSi–CNT FGM composite was produced by controlled deposition equipment.
• AlSi–CNT FGM developed for piston rings have an equilibrium of properties and cost.

The damage of piston rings is attributed first to wear, then to lubrication and fatigue. Their damage may be substantially mitigated by creating a FGM-Functionally Graded Material composite with optimized mechanical behavior. The aim of this paper was to produce an AlSi–CNTs functionally graded material (FGM) that can be considered for engine compression piston rings. The AlSi graded composites (reinforced with 0–2 wt.% CNT FGM approach) was obtained with a new equipment that was designed to produce FGMs by powder metallurgy (PM) processing route. SEM analysis showed that the produced FGMs have a gradual change in wt.% of reinforcement and on mechanical properties. Results of yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, tensile strain, fatigue limit performance and wear loss are presented and discussed. It is expected that the obtained AlSi–CNTs functionally graded composite developed for piston rings may have a global equilibrium of properties.

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