Abstract
In powder metallurgy, a high-cost method that is widely used to increase the useful life of the mechanical components is the addition of alloying elements. A less-exploited process is surface enrichment by plasma, where the same result is obtained only on the surface of the component at a rather lower cost. This paper reports on the improvement of the tribological properties of powder injection molding (PIM) self-lubricating composites produced by surface Mo-enrichment. The tribological properties were evaluated in terms of the scuffing resistance, friction coefficient, and wear rate values of enriched and non-enriched specimens, and counter-bodies. Scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and μRaman spectroscopy were used to characterize the wear scars. The results showed that Mo enrichment increased the scuffing resistance by an impressive 2000%, with a 90% decrease in the wear rate of the specimens and counter-bodies. These results were ascribed to several factors, including the microstructural modification, hardness increase, and tribolayer formation.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
