Friction and wear performance of gold and gold alloy films

Abstract

The tribological properties of gold and gold alloy coatings are of interest from two main points of view. In the electronics industry they influence the service lifetimes of electrical connectors and sliding contacts. In the aerospace industry they dictate the use of gold on moving metal parts as a solid film lubricant. Current knowledge of these properties is reviewed here with particular emphasis on this latter type of applications. © 1980 World Gold Council.