A Cylinder and Assembled Four-Block Type Tribo-Test: Novel Method to Study Tribo-Chemistry of Lubricant and Material

Abstract

A new tribo-tester was developed by modification of the “Falex Pin & Vee-block” type tribo-test (ASTM D 3233). The advantages of the present method are (1) specimen made of various materials is easily available and (2) the specimen is ready to surface analysis without any processing after the tribo-test. Utilities of the new tribo-test were demonstrated by comparing additive-material compatibility. The tribological properties of aluminum/aluminum contact were improved by phosphorus containing additives, whereas those of copper/copper contact were improved by sulfur containing additives. These results were well explained by tribo-chemistry based on the results of XPS analysis.

Keywords

• additive-material compatibility
• surface analysis
• tribo-chemistry
• boundary lubrication