Tribological and Morphological Evaluation of Ni-P and Ni-P/D Coatings

Abstract

The tribological characteristics of Electroless Ni-P and Ni-P/D (diamond) coatings were studied and analysed against AISI 52100 steel ball under dry reciprocating sliding conditions. Low and High Phosphorus Ni-P alloy coatings were deposited on steel substrate by Electroless deposition technique. Diamond particles were successfully reinforced into Ni-P matrix to produce Ni-P/D composite coatings. All coatings were subjected to heat treatment at 400°. The micro-hardness, surface features and elemental composition of the coatings was analysed. The surface morphology of Ni-P and Ni-P/D coatings is detailed. Presence of dia mond particles in Ni-P matrix was confirmed by EDS analysis. Dry sliding wear tests showed a significant enhancement in wear resistance of Ni-P/D composite coatings compared to Ni-P coatings. Experimental results indicate that combined effect of diamond particles reinforcement and heat treatment play a crucial role in modifying the surface characteristics and tribological performance of the Ni-P coatings.