Investigation of the tribological behavior of aluminum alloy used in rail system vehicles after shot peening process

In accordance with sustainable engineering solutions, enhancing the surface performance of 6061-T6 aluminum alloy—one of the most preferred materials in the railway and aerospace industries—is of great importance. This study investigates the effect of shot peening on the wear resistance and tribological properties of this alloy. The process was applied at coverage rates of 100%, 200%, 500%, and 1500%, and compared with an untreated reference sample. Microhardness testing, wear analysis, residual stress measurements, and surface roughness evaluations revealed that shot peening improves surface properties and increases wear resistance. Notably, the sample treated at 1500% coverage exhibited the highest hardness and the lowest wear rate. Microstructural and SEM analyses showed that subsurface deformation and wear mechanisms also contributed to these improvements. In conclusion, shot peening is shown to be an effective, applicable, and sustainable surface enhancement method for 6061-T6 aluminum alloy. This technique offers significant advantages in industries where lightweight and durability are critical.