Probing the effect of the electric current on the tribological performances of the electrical contact surfaces with graphene coating

Abstract

A simple and effective method is used to construct graphene coating on brass surface, and the effect of electric currents on tribological performances are studied. Results show that larger current can reduce the friction coefficient and contact resistance, moreover, larger current can suppress the generation of friction-induced vibration. Surface analysis results show the graphene coating is seriously damaged at a low current input, result in the increase of friction coefficient and generation of vibration. Numerical analysis results suggest a larger input current can help reduce the contact pressure and accordingly improve the wear. Moreover, larger current causes the graphene coating to expand, leading to a better contact with the friction pair, so the graphene can better exploit its properties.