Evaluation of the tribological properties of two PEEKs sliding against Al2O3, WC and DLC coatings under dry friction and water lubrication

Abstract

Abstract The tribology performance of two carbon fiber-reinforced polyether-ether-ketones (450FC30 and WG101) sliding against stainless steel 3Cr13 and 3Cr13 coated with aluminium oxide (Al2O3), tungsten carbide (WC) and diamond-like carbon (DLC) under dry friction and water lubrication were studied to reduce the coefficient of friction and improve the wear resistance of water-lubricated bearings. The friction and wear mechanism of different tribopairs were determined via pin-on-disc sliding tests. Experimental results showed that the WG101/Al2O3 tribopair exhibited excellent wear resistance under dry friction and water lubrication. Carbon fibers were exposed on the friction surface of WG101 when WG101 slid against Al2O3. These carbon fibers bore most of the load to reduce wear. This work provides a practical basis for selecting the optimal tribopair for water-lubricated bearings.