Abstract: The effect of preferential alignment of SiC whiskers in Al2O3 matrix on wear behaviour has been studied by scanning electron microscope observation, tribe-physics, finite element method analysis and metal cutting tests. The SiC whisker reinforced Al2O3 ceramic specimen showed a discrepancy of wear performance on the planes in the directions perpendicular or parallel to the hot pressing axis. Experiments show the plane parallel to the hot pressing dirention was found to be significantly more wear resistant than the plane normal to the hot pressing direction. SEM examination revealed that the oxidated SiC whiskers prior were out which then caused Al2O3 grains fractured. The finite element analysis indicated that the preferred whisker orientation had distinet influence on resistance of shearing stress in the wear interface in which the fine particle debris generated and microfracture occurred. Cutting tests show that higher tool life by wear was obtained when the plane parallel to the hot pressing direction was used as the rake face of the cutting tool.

Key words: 晶间裂纹, 晶体学, 磨损, 陶瓷刀具, 应力