Journal Article

Study of silicon carbide-reinforced aluminum matrix composite brake rotor for motorcycle application

Natarajan, Harish Karthi, P., Sadagopan, J., Praveen Kumar

2018

Overview

With weight reduction and component reliability being the top priority while designing automobile components, the selection and use of materials of a high strength-to-weight ratio is of vital importance. Less weight ensures low fuel consumption and hence low emissions thus having a great impact on the environment on a large scale. Brake rotors are one of the most important components in an automobile, which aid in stopping the vehicle by converting the kinetic energy of the moving vehicle into heat energy by means of friction. This study focuses on the use of abrasive particle (SiC)-reinforced aluminum metal matrix composite material for brake rotors which is expected to generate less heat during braking (due to friction) and also reduces the unsprung mass of the vehicle resulting in better handling. This paper discusses the design, structural, and thermal analysis; the manufacturing method; and the testing of silicon carbide-reinforced aluminum (Al 6061) matrix composite material for motorcycle brake rotor.

• Publisher: Springer London,Springer Nature B.V
• Subject: Aluminum / Aluminum base alloys / Aluminum matrix composites / Automotive parts / Brakes / Braking / CAE) and Design / Component reliability / Composite materials / Computer-Aided Engineering (CAD / Engineering / Environmental impact / Friction reduction / Fuel consumption / Industrial and Production Engineering / Kinetic energy / Mechanical Engineering / Media Management / Metal matrix composites / Motorcycles / Original Article / Production methods / Rotors / Silicon carbide / Strength to weight ratio / Test procedures / Thermal analysis / Weight reduction