Tribology and wear theory of aluminium composites: Review and discussion

Abstract

In this review, the classical and contemporary wear theories and wear mechanisms are discussed. The development of wear theories are started from adhesive and abrasive to delamination theory, mechanical mixed layer (MML) and self lubrication theory are reviewed based on the previous reports. It was found that the adhesive and abrasive are developed based on quantitative approach whereas the delamination, MML and self lubrication theory are developed based on qualitative approach. Each theory has limitation in order to explain the wear theory comprehensively because of different testing system, composite manufacturing technique, type of reinforcement and volume fraction, size as well as hardness. However, a consensus has been reach from a qualitative point view.