Tribology of metals and alloys

Abstract

The surface properties of metals and alloys become important when these materials are used especially for tribological applications. Some basic concepts involved during wear of metals and alloys are briefly discussed in this chapter. Delamination theory of adhesive wear which is dominating wear mechanism for most metals and alloys is discussed. Most of the tribological joints are exposed to environmental oxygen when used in atmospheric conditions. Oxidation becomes problematic for such and high-temperature sliding applications when oxygen source is readily available at the interface. The debris formation mechanism and oxidation during sliding are included in this chapter. Information on oxidation and tribological behavior of 60NiTi is reviewed as it is a potential alloy for tribo-element applications. A brief description on phase transformation and high-temperature tribology of metallic materials is also included. The wear of materials at the interface depends on the interfacial strength of the sliding materials. In high-temperature oxidative wear, wear performance can be determined by the type of oxides formed on the sliding surfaces.