Improvement of Tensile Behaviour of Tin Babbitt by Reinforcing with Nano Ilmenite and its Optimisation by using Response Surface Methodology

Metal Matrix Nanocomposites are made from conventional materials and alloys as matrix materials and had become prominent in improving the mechanical behaviour. In this paper, the authors have fabricated a Tin Babbitt particulate metal matrix nanocomposite reinforced with Ilmenite (FeTiO3). For systematic understanding or effect of processing parameters on the tensile behaviour, the central composite design of response surface methodology was used. Metal matrix nanocomposite was fabricated by using ultrasonic assisted stir casting technique. Stirring time, ultrasonic processing time, Wt.% of nanoparticles were taken as processing parameters. The objective of the work is to improve the tensile behaviour of Tin Babbitt and understand the effect of processing parameters on the tensile strength of the Tin Babbitt metal matrix nanocomposite and then optimise it for maximum tensile strength. It was found that tensile strength was improved due to the nano reinforcement.