Modeling of soft phase transfer to the surface of multicomponent aluminum alloy in friction

Abstract

A model for calculating the dependence of the amount of solid lubricant formed on the surface of a multicomponent aluminum alloy in friction is proposed. The constructed model is applied to analyze how the properties of the matrix and soft structural components as well as the alloy structure influence the amount of the soft phase transferred to the friction zone which provides for self-lubrication. Recommendations are given concerning the structural composition of the alloy (size and density of phase inclusions) in order to increase the thickness of formed lubricant film in specified friction modes.