A Study of the Influence of Surface Layer Properties on the Tribotechnical Characteristics of Plain Machine Tool Slideways

The article studies the influence of the surface layer properties on the tribotechnical characteristics of plain machine tool slideways. The aim of the study is to enhance the efficiency of cinematic friction pairs, which operate under the conditions of slow movements. The influence of the modified geometrical, physical and chemical properties of a surface layer, a type of lubrication, as well as that of the power and cinematic conditions on the friction coefficient and wear rate have been considered in the tribological contact. The optimal composition and formulation of a powder material have been developed to apply low-wear coatings. The paper presents the results of the wear test, which were carried out for the comparative evaluation of the wear resistance of the contacting surfaces under the conditions of boundary friction, with the properties of the active surface layer being modified and various materials being used. The advantages and disadvantages of laser infusion for plasma spray-coated surfaces have been specified. It has been concluded that the maximum wear resistance of friction pairs is reached by applying wear-resistant self-slagging coatings on the contacting surface followed by a laser infusion and laser finishing and strengthening treatment.