Tribological behavior of TSP reinforced WC matrix composites sliding against N80 casing steel lubricated by water-based drilling fluid

The friction and casing wear behavior of TSP composites sliding against N80 casing steels and lubricated by drilling fluids were investigated. It was found that the water-based drilling fluid reduced friction coefficient and casing wear effectively. The surface lubricating films with iron oxide grains formed on the surface of casings are all observed for the three hardbandings, while the discontinuous lubrication film of N3 alloy might account for the higher casing wear therewith. The lowest friction coefficient and casing wear was recorded for TSP composite under load of 10-130 N. This is dependent on the adsorbed lubricating liquid on the rubbing surface and the formation of height difference between the TSP part and the WC matrix part.