| dc.description.abstract | The use of powder metallurgy in the manufacturing of mechanical components such
as gears offers advantages in terms of material efficiency, refined microstructures,
and enhanced wear resistance. One promising approach to improving mechanical
performance is the addition of reinforcing nanoparticles such as Y2 O3 (yttria) into
medium entropy alloy (MEA) systems, particularly Fe-Cu-Ni-0.2Al. This study
aims to investigate the effect of varying nano Y2 O3 compositions (0.5%, 1%, and
1.5% wt), compaction pressures (210 MPa, 260 MPa, 310 MPa), and sintering
temperatures (950°C, 1000°C, 1050°C) on the mechanical and microstructural
properties of Fe-Cu-Ni-0.2Al alloy. The metal powders were mixed using a Vmixer,
compacted via warm compaction, and sintered under different temperature
conditions. Mechanical characterization included density testing, Vickers hardness,
compressive strength, and wear resistance. Microstructural analysis was performed
using optical microscopy and SEM-EDS, while phase identification was carried out
using X-ray diffraction (XRD). Data were analyzed using the Taguchi method for
parameter optimization. The addition of Y₂O₃ significantly improved hardness and
compressive strength, with optimal properties achieved at 1.5 wt% Y2 O3, 310 MPa
compaction pressure, and 1050°C sintering temperature. The highest hardness
reached 278 HVN, while the lowest was 192 HVN. Increasing Y₂O₃ content
decreased density due to its low specific gravity. Wear rate consistently decreased
with higher Y₂O₃ content, indicating enhanced abrasion resistance. SEM analysis
showed more uniform phase distribution and reduced porosity at optimal
parameters. The addition of Y2 O3 nanoparticles to Fe-Cu-Ni-0.2Al alloy
significantly enhances mechanical properties, particularly hardness, compressive
strength, and wear resistance. The optimal combination of parameters makes this
alloy a strong candidate material for small gear applications with superior
mechanical performance. | |
