The role of deformation of friction surfaces in the wear of abrasive grains

Abstract

1. One of the fundamental factors affecting the degree of wear and magnitude of friction forces in sliding friction on corundum and silicon carbide is the deformation of crystal surface layers. 2. The degree of deformation depends on the normal pressure and on the orientation of the friction surface relative to the principal crystal axis; it is directly related to the magnitude of the friction force and rate of wear. 3. Friction-induced deformation leads to the formation of a characteristic microrelief on rubbing surfaces; this is one of the causes of the deformation-induced changes in friction force. 4. There are wide differences in friction forces and degree of wear between differently oriented crystal planes in abrasive grains. This anisotropy of properties of abrasives should be taken into account when they are used as bearing materials.