Optimization of biomimetic weave parameters using response surface methodology to improve tribological performance of HSLT-Q235

Q235 steel is commonly used in the main structural components of coal mining machinery. Coal dust covers the surface of mining equipment components, and the surface of the components is severely abraded by friction when working. To improve the wear resistance and extend the service life of some components of mining equipment under a coal dust environment, a hexagonal serpentine-like texture (HSLT-Q235) was engraved on the surface of Q235 steel by laser, and reciprocal dry friction experiments were carried out on the wear performance of Q235 steel under the lubrication of coal particles. The optimum parameters of the biomimetic weave were obtained by Response Surface Methodology (RSM) (side length of 746.387 μm, width of 137.216 μm, and depth of 167.142 μm). The abraded biomimetic textured surface areas were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and metallurgical microscopy to analyze the microstructure and physical phase changes. The experimental results showed that the hexagonal biomimetic serpentine scale texture was filled with coal dust with self-healing behavior, and the HSLT-Q235 had excellent wear reduction and wear resistance, with the average coefficient of friction and wear reduced by 42.7 % and 50.8 %, respectively, compared with the Q235 base material without the texture.