Effect of lubrication on tribological behaviour of martensitic stainless steel

Sliding wear of 13/4 martensitic stainless steel is systematically investigated in dry, automotive oil and distilled water lubrication at 5, 10 or 20N load against bearing grade steel balls. The friction coefficient (COF) varied from 0.08 to 0.9 and wear rate varied from 1.4X10-14 m3/Nm to 1.2X10-12 m3/Nm in the investigated sliding conditions. One order of magnitude of reduction in friction or wear can be obtained in lubricated conditions of sliding. The lowest COF and wear rate are noted in oil lubrication at 10 N load. Adhesion, abrasion, delamination and/or oxidation are identified as dominant wear mechanisms in investigated sliding conditions. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.