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Title: Vapor phase lubrication of a Ni-based superalloy

Journal Article · · Lubrication Engineering
OSTI ID:245313
; ;  [1]
  1. Cleveland State Univ., OH (United States)

In addition to ceramics, alloys such as tool steel and nickel- and iron-based superalloys are being considered for high temperature applications such as missile bearings and low heat rejection engines. Studies were made to lubricate a nickel-based superalloy at 500{degrees}C, by using a vaporized aryl phosphate ester, at a concentration of 0.1% in air. From deposition and wear studies it was found that it was impossible to form a good polymeric coating on the superalloy surface. Energy dispersive X-ray analyzer (EDXA) analysis showed that this was due to minute quantities of aluminum in the alloy segregating to the surface, upon being heated to 500{degrees}C, forming a passive oxide coating. It was necessary to activate the surface, in order to lubricate the material successfully. A method of activation by electrodepositing the surface with a layer of iron oxide was developed. Once activated, a good lubricous polymer was formed on the superalloy surface. Tests performed under dynamic conditions and 1 MPa pressure, using an activated specimen surface showed no wear and a coefficient of friction ({mu}) of 0.05. These results stress the importance of material selection for high temperature vapor phase lubrication. 15 refs., 13 figs., 2 tabs.

OSTI ID:
245313
Journal Information:
Lubrication Engineering, Vol. 51, Issue 3; Other Information: PBD: Mar 1995
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English