Tribological behavior of hybrid PTFE/Kevlar fabric composites with different weave densities

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to achieve attractive fabric composites with excellent tribological performance and investigate the wear mechanisms of these fabric composites sliding against bearing steel pins under dry sliding process. Design/methodology/approach – Five different weave density composites were prepared, and the tribological behaviors of these composites were studied at different testing conditions. Scanning electron microscopy, laser microscopy (three-dimensional profile measurements) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry were used to analyze the worn surface morphology, wear volume and elemental content of the transfer films, respectively. Findings – The composite weave density serves an important influence on tribological behavior. Generally, the wear rate of each composite increased with increasing weave density, and the friction coefficient of each composite decreased with increasing weave density. Originality/value – Nanoparticle-filled hybrid polytetrafluoroethylene/Kevlar fabric composites with proper weave density have exhibited superior tribological properties in dry sliding conditions. The results that obtained in this paper may offer a reference for others who intend to achieve attractive fabric composites with excellent tribological performance.