Effect of temperature on sliding and erosive wear of fiber reinforced polyimide hybrids

Three thermoplastic polyimide (PI) hybrids reinforced with carbon fiber, glass fiber and aramid fiber were prepared by means of hot press molding technique. Friction and wear behavior of the PI composites at elevated temperature under sliding and erosive conditions has been investigated. Under sliding conditions the wear rate of materials increased with temperature rise. All materials tested showed higher erosion rate when tested under an oblique 30° angle compared to 90° impact. Glass fiber reinforced PI hybrids and neat polyimide matrix had the highest resistance under sliding and erosive conditions. Scanning electron microscopy examinations showed that adhesive wear was the dominant wear mechanism under sliding conditions. Braking of fillers and removal of PI matrix prevailed during erosion.