Optimization of Tribological parameter of ZK60/12 Wt% ZrB₂ composite through Taguchi approach

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) are witnesses to be a good substitute for conservative materials. The current study involved stir casting with 12 weight percent Zirconium diboride (ZrB₂) particles reinforced ZK60 composite. Taguchi method was used to optimize the tribological parameters. The wear test was conducted using the L16 orthogonal array (OA) and the percentage contribution of each component were then determined using the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The process parameters used are Load 5, 10, 15 and 20 N, Sliding Velocity (SV) 1, 2, 3, 4 m/s and Sliding Distance (SD) 750, 1000, 1250 & 1500 m. With a greatest contribution of 58.65%, SD followed by Load and SV. According to the Signal to Noise ratio main effect plots the optimal parameters for wear test was to be (10 N) load, SV (4 m/s), and (1250 m) SD through taguchi method. The least amount of Wear Rate (WR) was observed.