Subsurface deformation and the role of surface texture - A study with Cu pins and steel plates

Abstract

The extent of subsurface deformation below the worn surface influences friction and transfer layer formation during sliding. Thus, in this study, the extent of plastic deformation and strain localization events that occur at various depths beneath the worn surface in the subsurface zones of Cu pins slid against steel plate with various surface textures have been determined using simple metallographic techniques. Results showed that the magnitude of plastic strain gradient and the depth of highly deformed zone depend on both coefficient of friction and transfer layer formation, which in-turn depends on the surface texture of harder counterface, under both dry and lubricated conditions. In addition, it was seen that the gradient of equivalent strain, as it approached the worn surface, was higher under dry conditions when compared to that under lubricated conditions.