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Friction and wear of soft materials - transfer layers
When a hard rough surface slides under dry or only marginally lubricated conditions against a material
such as a polymer or graphitic-carbon the initial wear rate of the softer material is initially very high but
with decreases, sometimes to remarkably small values, with sliding time or distance. This phenomenon depends
on the generation of a stable transfer layer of 'debris' on the harder counterface which, by filling up the
interstices between roughness peaks, reduces the number of actively damaging asperities. This mechanism has
been explored for the particular case of the family of carbon-graphite materials widely used in mechanical
seals and dry running bearings [1]. It is hoped to extend its application to the field of diamond-like-carbon
coatings.
Relevant/recent publications
- Williams, J. A., Morris, J. H. and Ball, A. 'The effect of transfer layers on the surface contact and
wear of carbon-graphite materials', Trib. Int., 30, pp663-676 (1997).
Contact Details
For further information on the work summarised above contact Dr J A
Williams at Cambridge University Engineering Department, Trumpington St, Cambridge, CB2 1PZ, UK. Tel:
01223 332641, Fax: 01223 332662. E-mail: jaw@eng.cam.ac.uk
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