Influence of Fiber Orientation and Volume Fraction on the Frictional Behavior of Metal Matrix Composites: A Mathematical Modeling Approach

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) are increasingly used in advanced engineering systems as they offer a favourable combination of low density, high strength with improved wear resistance. These advantages them suitable for applications where components are exposed to repeated sliding or contact loads. Although the mechanical performance of MMCs has been widely studied, their frictional behaviour, particularly the role played by fiber orientation within the composite is still not fully understood. Gaining insight into this aspect is essential for designing components with predictable and reliable tribological performance. In this study, a mathematical model is developed to describe the coefficient of friction of MMCs by considering the combined effects of fiber orientation angle, fiber volume fraction, and matrix material properties. The model provides a clear physical interpretation of how microstructural arrangement influences surface interaction during sliding. The results indicate that friction decreases as fibers become more aligned with the direction of loading, allowing smoother relative motion. In contrast, increasing the amount of fiber reinforcement leads to higher friction due to greater interfacial resistance. The highest friction values are observed when fibers are oriented perpendicular to the applied load, where sliding is strongly opposed. In addition to it, predictions obtained from the proposed formulation show good agreement with experimental trends reported in the literature. The findings offer the extensive utilization of fiber orientation and reinforcement relationship in order to achieve improved wear resistance and service performance in aerospace, automotive, and biomedical applications.