Tribological performance of Nano‐Tin as lubrication additives used in steel‐copper tribo‐pair

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to study a new type of lubrication additive with Nano‐Tin, and to analyze the tribological performance of the friction coatings that are formed by the lubricants.

Design/methodology/approach

The Tin‐base additives were prepared and activated, friction testing was performed on an improved type MS‐800 four‐ball tester, and the nanometer additives with different contents of Tin were used as lubricants in steel‐copper tribo‐pair. The surface elements of friction coatings were investigated with Auger electron spectrum, and the thickness and element distribution of the coating were measured with scanning electron microscope.

Findings

The ultra‐thick friction coating (10‐20 μm) with abundant Tin was carried out and combined well with the surface of the copper sample when lubricated with oil containing this additive. The coating exhibited excellent anti‐wear and friction‐reducing capacities.

Research limitations/implications

The anticorrosion properties have not been estimated.

Practical implications

A useful Nano‐Tin base lubricating oil additive is prepared and the activate method is explored. It may provide the potential lubricating oil additive for steel‐copper tribo‐pair, such as steel worm‐copper worm wheel transmission.

Originality/value

This paper provides a Nano‐Tin base‐activated additive which, when used in lubricating oil, can form an ultra‐thick friction coating. It has the same self‐repairing properties as a steel‐copper tribo‐pair.

Citation

Mo, Y. and Tao, D. (2011), "Tribological performance of Nano‐Tin as lubrication additives used in steel‐copper tribo‐pair", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 63 No. 2, pp. 72-77. https://doi.org/10.1108/00368791111112180