Synergistic lubrication effects of Sn–Ag–Cu and MXene–Ti₃C₂ to improve tribological properties of M50 bearing steel with microporous channels

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to study the synergistic lubrication effects of Sn–Ag–Cu and MXene–Ti₃C₂ to improve the tribological properties of M50 bearing steel with microporous channels.

Design/methodology/approach

M50 matrix self-lubricating composites (MMSC) were designed and prepared by filling Sn–Ag–Cu and MXene–Ti₃C₂ in the microporous channels of M50 bearing steel. The tribology performance testing of as-prepared samples was executed with a multifunction tribometer. The optimum hole size and lubricant content, as well as self-lubricating mechanism of MMSC, were studied.

Findings

The tribological properties of MMSC are strongly dependent on the synergistic lubrication effect of MXene–Ti₃C₂ and Sn–Ag–Cu. When the hole size of microchannel is 1 mm and the content of MXene–Ti₃C₂ in mixed lubricant is 4 wt.%, MMSC shows the lowest friction coefficient and wear rate. The Sn–Ag–Cu and MXene–Ti₃C₂ are extruded from the microporous channels and spread to the friction interface, and a relatively complete lubricating film is formed at the friction interface. Meanwhile, the synergistic lubrication of Sn–Ag–Cu and MXene–Ti₃C₂ can improve the stability of the lubricating film, thus the excellent tribological property of MMSC is obtained.

Originality/value

The results help in deep understanding of the synergistic lubrication effects of Sn–Ag–Cu and MXene–Ti₃C₂ on the tribological properties of M50 bearing steel. This work also provides a useful reference for the tribological design of mechanical components by combining surface texture with solid lubrication.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-12-2023-0381/

Citation

Huang, Y., Ma, H., Meng, Y. and Mao, Y. (2024), "Synergistic lubrication effects of Sn–Ag–Cu and MXene–Ti₃C₂ to improve tribological properties of M50 bearing steel with microporous channels", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 76 No. 3, pp. 327-336. https://doi.org/10.1108/ILT-12-2023-0381