Influence of Laser Surface Texture on the Anti-Friction Properties of 304 Stainless Steel

Abstract

To enhance the anti-friction properties of 304 stainless steel, friction experiments were conducted on it after laser surface texturing. The influences of laser scanning speed, repetition frequency, processing times, laser beam line spacing, and lattice spacing on the friction properties of 304 stainless steel were investigated by contrast tests under annular filling mode. The results revealed that laser texturing improved the anti-friction properties of 304 stainless steel. The friction coefficient of the sample surface decreased first and then increased with the increase in scanning speed, repetition frequency, processing times, laser beam line spacing, and lattice spacing. Based on this, process optimization found that a stainless steel surface with good anti-friction properties could be obtained when the laser power was 0.3 W, the repetition frequency was 50 kHz, the scanning speed was 80 mm/s, the laser beam line spacing was 1 μm, the lattice spacing was 200 μm, and the number of processing times was two. Finally, scanning electron microscope (SEM) characterization of wear morphology on the sample surface showed that the laser textured surface could collect debris during effective friction, which reduced the occurrence of abrasive and adhesive wear. Meanwhile, the actual contact area of the friction pair was effectively reduced, thereby reducing friction force and wear. This study provided experimental data and a theoretical basis for improving the friction properties of the 304 stainless steel surface and laid the foundation for its reliable use under friction and wear conditions.