Influence of manufacturing technology on tribological properties of A390.0 alloy

Purpose: In this paper, results of tribological studies on AlSi17Cu5Mg alloy subjected to a modification (CuP10) and a significant overheating above Tliq are presented, referring them to the starting material. Design/methodology/approach: The influence of the applied technologies on the refinement of the primary crystals of Si was defined by determination of stereological parameters. In case of the overheated alloy, the primary crystals of silicon assume the forms of polygons with sharp edges after the overheating. In practice, it results in a decrease in tribological properties and an increase in the coefficient of friction in relation to the alloy modified with phosphorus. Findings: The result show that all investigated properties were changed. Significant differences between the analyzed specimens were proved in the friction coefficient and in the wear rate of the tested friction connections. Research limitations/implications: The application of modified by CuP10 aluminum alloy allows to reduce the friction coefficient between tested surface and counter-samples and also reduce the wear rate. This property’s causes that this material can be used in many applications where the aim is to reduce friction coefficient and wear rate. Practical implications: Reducing of friction coefficient and increase wear resistance causes that these materials can be used in many applications in the automotive industry such as blocks of engines, cylinders etc. Originality/value: Influence of aluminium modification on chosen tribological properties have been investigated.