Microstructure and mechanical properties of Ni-based high temperature solid-lubricating composites

The poor mechanical properties are the main obstacle for the present solid-lubricating bulk materials in practical applications. In this work, the microstructure and high temperature mechanical properties of the solid-lubricating NiCrMoAl-12.5 wt%Ag-xCaF2/BaF2 eutectic (x=5 or 10 wt%) composites, denoted as the 5 F and 10 F respectively, have been evaluated. Both the composites display superior tensile strength of above 300 MPa from room temperature (RT) to 600 °C and extraordinary compressive strength that is above 500 MPa at 800 °C. These superior properties make the composite particularly suitable for bearing applications where the compression strength is an engineering factor to be preferably considered.