Evaluation of the tribological properties of two PEEKs sliding against Al2O3, WC and DLC coatings under dry friction and water lubrication

Abstract The tribology performance of two carbon fiber-reinforced polyether-ether-ketones (450FC30 and WG101) sliding against stainless steel 3Cr13 and 3Cr13 coated with aluminium oxide (Al 2 O 3 ), tungsten carbide (WC) and diamond-like carbon (DLC) under dry friction and water lubrication were studied to reduce the coefficient of friction and improve the wear resistance of water-lubricated bearings. The friction and wear mechanism of different tribopairs were determined via pin-on-disc sliding tests. Experimental results showed that the WG101/Al 2 O 3 tribopair exhibited excellent wear resistance under dry friction and water lubrication. Carbon fibers were exposed on the friction surface of WG101 when WG101 slid against Al 2 O 3 . These carbon fibers bore most of the load to reduce wear. This work provides a practical basis for selecting the optimal tribopair for water-lubricated bearings.