Tribological analysis in Al–Mg–Zn alloy casting processed through equal channel angular pressing, compared with Al-7075 T6 alloy

This research shows an extensive analysis of the microstructural, mechanical, and tribological response in a cast Al–Mg–Zn alloy processed through ECAP, developed in order to obtain a material with similar properties of the Al-7075 T6 alloy. Microstructure of the Al–Mg–Zn alloy was analyzed through optical and scanning electron microscope; on the other hand, wear tests were carried out on ball-on-disc tribometer according to the ASTM-G99. Before and after processing, mechanical properties were evaluated through microhardness measurements. Furthermore, wear mechanisms and friction coefficient in the Al–Mg–Zn alloy were analyzed and correlated with microstructure and mechanical properties after deformation process, while these results were compared with the properties of the Al-7075 T6 alloy. Results showed that ECAP process improves the mechanical properties, however, a wear resistance decrement in terms of wear rate and friction coefficient was observed.