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Title: Evaluation of anti-wear performance of PFPE-soluble additives under sliding contact in high vacuum

Journal Article · · ASLE Transactions
; ;  [1]
  1. Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo (Japan)

The anti-wear performances of perfluoropolyether (PEPE)-soluble additives were evaluated under vacuum using a vacuum four-ball tribometer with 440C stainless steel balls as test specimens. PEPE derivatives having the hydroxyl, carboxyl and phosphate groups at the end of the Type D-PEPE molecules were studied. The addition of either PEPE-soluble carboxylic acid or PEPE-soluble phosphates to the PEPE base oil remarkably reduced steady wear rates in a vacuum environment, whereas the addition of PEPE-soluble alcohol did not. Contrary to the performance in vacuum, an appreciable increase in wear rate was observed in the air atmosphere with all the types of additives used. The effect of moisture is studied in explaining the high wear rates obtained with the additives in the air environment. The mechanism of boundary lubrication with PEPE-soluble additives is discussed.

Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
OSTI ID:
117693
Journal Information:
ASLE Transactions, Vol. 38, Issue 3; Other Information: PBD: Jul 1995
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English