In-Situ SEM Study of Boundary Lubricated Contacts

Abstract

Abstract Low speed, steel-on-steel sliding experiments were run in-situ in a scanning electron microscope which was modified to allow the application of a thin film of hydrocarbon oil to the sliding surfaces. With periodic videotaping of the lubricated sliding contact and surface topography measurement, the wear process was observed and documented from initial sliding on new material, through run-in, to the eventual failure of the surfaces. It was found that grooves and finishing marks are filled in with plastically deformed metal as the surfaces run-in. The loss of these lubricant retaining grooves combined with a buildup of fine wear debris leads to very fine scale surface damage at localized adhesive contacts. Continued sliding results in failure of the surfaces by a plowing/cutting mechanism. Presented as a Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers paper at the STLE/ASME Tribology Conference in San Antonio, Texas, October 5–8, 1987 Notes Presented as a Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers paper at the STLE/ASME Tribology Conference in San Antonio, Texas, October 5–8, 1987