EFFECT OF THE TRIBOLOGICAL BEHAVIOUR OF HEMATITE FILLED HYBRID COMPOSITES – A TAGUCHI APPROACH

Abstract

This paper reports the development and wear performance evaluation of a new class of polymer based composites filled with hematite ore. The ore particles 75-150µm are reinforced in polyester resin to prepare particulate filled composite of three different compositions (with 0,3,6&9 wt.% of ore). Dry sliding wear trials are conducted following a well planned experimental schedule based on design of experiments (DOE) using a standard pin on disc test setup. Significant control factors predominantly influencing the wear rate are identified. Effect of Fe2O3 content on the wear rate of polyester composites under different test conditions is studied. ANOVA approach taking into account training test procedure to predict the dependence of wear behavior on various control factors is implemented. This technique helps in saving time and resources for large number on experimental trails and predicts the wear response of Fe2O3filled epoxy composites within and beyond the experimental domain.