The Investigation into Tribological Properties of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Composite

Carbon fiber reinforced composites can be considered as a good candidate material for tribological applications because of their complex interwoven nature of the fiber that makes it difficult to break. Since this advanced composite are relatively new in tribological applications, studies need to be done to discover its friction and wear properties. The main purpose of doing this research is to investigate the friction and wear properties of carbon fiber reinforced composite. The samples of this composite were prepared from carbon fiber prepreg. Tests have been conducted to evaluate the friction and wear behaviour of the composite. The first test conducted was the hardness test using an Indentec 9150 LKV hardness testing machine. Wear tests were conducted using a TABER® 5131 Abraser. The purpose of doing this test was to evaluate the resistance of surface to abrasive wear. Before and after the test, the surface roughness of the composite was measured using a Perthometer Concept. The adhesive wear mode of the composite was also tested by using a Ducom® Multispecimen Tester. Finally, the studies on worn surface topography were done using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) to understand its wear mechanisms. Based on the results obtained, the woven reinforcement composite proved to be better in performance for both abrasive and adhesive wear.