Tribological characteristics of C/C-SiC braking composites under dry and wet conditions

C/C-SiC braking composites, based on reinforcement of carbon fibers and matrices of carbon and silicon carbide, were fabricated by warm compaction and in situ reaction process. The tribological characteristics of C/C-SiC braking composites under dry and wet conditions were investigated by means of MM-1000 type of friction testing machine. The influence of dry and wet conditions on the tribological characteristics of the C/C-SiC composites was ascertained. Under dry condition, C/C-SiC braking composites show superior tribological characteristics, including high coefficient of friction (0.38), good abrasive resistance (thickness loss is 1.10 μm per cycle) and steady breaking. The main wear mechanism is plastic deformation and abrasion caused by plough. Under wet condition, frictional films form on the worn surface. The coefficient of friction (0.35) could maintain mostly, and the thickness loss (0.70 μm per cycle) reduces to a certain extent. Furthermore, braking curves are steady and adhesion and oxidation are the main wear mechanisms.