Optimization of bionic textured parameter to improve the tribological performance of AISI 4140 self-lubricating composite through response surface methodology

• DOI: 10.1016/j.triboint.2021.107104
• Publication Date: 2021-05-24T16:03:18Z
• Authors: Qipeng Huang; Xiaoliang Shi; Yawen Xue; Kaipeng Zhang; Chaohua Wu
• Keywords: 02 engineering and technology; 0210 nano-technology

Abstract Inspired by microstructures on tree frog surface, this article designs bionic micro-texture combined with solid lubrication SnAgCu to improve the tribological properties of AISI 4140 steel. The optimized bionic texture parameters are obtained by RSM. Tribological tests were carried out on Optimal Test (OT), Optimal Prediction (OP) and Control Group (CG). Compared with OT, the discontinuous layer phenomenon on wear track of OP is significantly reduced, lubricant content is increased, and numbers of pits near the textures are reduced. A uniform thickness of 2.4 µm lubricating film was formed on worn surface of OP, and the film was well bonded with substrate. Consequently, optimizing the micro-texture by RSM can significantly improve the tribological properties of AISI 4140 steel.