Investigating the Effect of Solid Lubricants Addition on Friction and Wear Behaviour of Thermally Sprayed Coatings

Abstract

Composite coatings using mixed alloy matrices reinforced with carbon-based solid lubricants as feedstock materials were prepared by atmospheric plasma spraying. The aim of the present study was to investigate the tribological characteristics of such coatings exploring potential benefits of CNTs as nano-additive to reduce friction and wear, improving lubrication conditions during operation in tribosystems, such as piston ring – cylinder liner systems. The chemical composition of feedstock materials and the thermal spray parameters during coatings deposition are correlated to friction coefficient and wear rate using pin-on-disk measurements. The developed coatings hybrid behaviour is studied. Co-based cermet as well as metal alloy anti-wear performance along with the promoted lubrication conditions during operation is revealed. The dependence of the developed coatings quality and performance on the characteristics of the feedstock powder is thoroughly discussed.