Tribological characterization of Fe-Cu-Sn alloy with graphite as solid lubricant

Purpose This paper aims to investigate the effect of varying Wt.% (0-3 per cent) of graphite as a solid lubricant on the tribological properties of Fe-Cu-Sn alloy. Design/methodology/approach Powder metallurgy technique is used for the fabrication of Fe-Cu-Sn alloy with varying Wt.% of graphite. The tribological tests were conducted on a ball-on-disc universal tribometer under different testing conditions. Findings The friction coefficient decreases with sliding distance and load, but the wear rate increases with the increase in load. The G3 composition showed the best tribological properties under dry conditions. The wear mechanism of G0 composition shows adhesive wear and abrasive wear, while G1, G2 and G3 compositions show mildly abrasive wear. Originality/value This paper reported a new, cheap and wear-resistant self-lubricating Fe matrix material for gears and bearings.