Evaluation of the influences of wax content on the tribological and mechanical performance of polytetrafluoroethylene-blended polyamide

Abstract

In this study, the influences of wax content on the tribological and mechanical performance of nylon-polytetrafluoroethylene blend were evaluated. Wear tests were carried out using nylon 6 + 10% polytetrafluoroethylene + wax pins on AISI 316 L disc material. The wax percentages in the blend are 2%, 4% and 6% by weight. Tests were carried out at room temperature with applied loads of 50–100 N and sliding speeds of 0.4–1.6 m/s. These conditions are equvilent to a combined pressure and speed factor values of 0.141–5.664 MPa m/s. Although the results showed a slight drop in mechanical properties, the friction coefficients and the wear rates of nylon blend were significantly reduced by the addition of wax filler. The friction coefficient was reduced from 0.29 to 0.13 and the reduction in the wear rate was up to 73%. Furthermore, the results also showed that the change in pressure and speed factor values did not have a significant influence on the specific wear rate values. Finally, micrographs of the the worn surfaces showed the presence of transfer film, deformation and adhesive wear mechanisms.