Effect of Traverse Speed on Microstructure and Properties of High-Entropy Alloy Reinforced Aluminum Matrix Composite by Friction Stir Processing

AA5083 aluminum matrix composite reinforced by FeCoNiCrAl high-entropy alloy particles were prepared by friction stir processing. The effect of the traverse speeds (45,60,75 mm·min^-1) on the high-entropy alloy particle distribution, microhardness and wear resistance of the composite was studied. The results show that no new phases were formed in the prepared composite. The microhardness of the composite was higher than that of the aluminum alloy matrix. With the increase of the traverse speed, the distribution uniformity of the high-entropy alloy particles became worse and the microhardness of the composite decreased slightly. The average friction coefficient and wear rate of the composite were lower than those of the aluminum alloy matrix. With the increase of the traverse speed, the friction coefficient and wear rate of the composite increased, and the wear resistance decreased. The wear mechanisms of the composite and aluminum alloy were abrasive wear and adhesive wear, respectively.