Chapter 17 - Friction Mechanisms and Fundamental Aspects in Solid Lubricant Coatings

Abstract

Solid lubricant coatings possess inherent lubricating properties and hence are very attractive for use under severe application conditions (such as high vacuum, aerospace, high speeds, high loads, and very low or high temperatures), where conventional materials and lubricants cannot provide the desired levels of performance or durability. A general design appraisal of the tribologic requirements on a coatedsurface contact can be formulated as follows: • The initial coefficient of friction (CF), the steady-state CF, and the friction instability must not exceed certain design values.