Tribological running-in investigation and surface analysis of copper coats made by electro-impulsive spraying

The aim of the research is tribological analysis of the running-in of friction pairs with copper coats made by electro-impulsive spraying (EPS) and estimation of the formation possibility of the selective transfer phenomenon (STP) in such friction pairs. Research results have shown that friction pairs with an EPS coat operate at a much lower friction coefficient. The character of friction torque variation and stabilisation could be explained by the self-organization processes. SEM and AFM investigations show the porosity, low roughness and formation of the protective film at the surface asperities of the EPS coated surface. This is an important feature of the servovitic film created by the selective transfer phenomenon.

Research Highlights
► Tribological tests of copper coat made by electro-impulsive spraying (EPS).
► Such friction pairs show lower friction comparing to rolled copper specimens.
► Friction torque stabilisation character explained by self-organization processes.
► Surface analysis with SEM and AFM microscopy of EPS coated friction pairs.
► Formation of protective servovitic film according to Selective transfer phenomenon.