Tribological properties of PAO40@SiO2/PTFE/aramid fabric composites subjected to heavy-loading conditions

Abstract PAO40@SiO2 microcapsules (PSMS) were prepared by adsorbing Poly α-olefin lubricating oil 40# (PAO40) with hollowed SiO2 particles. The tribological properties of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)/aramid fabric composites at different microcapsules contents were evaluated by the ring-block tests. The friction coefficient and wear rate of PTFE/aramid fabric composites containing 6 wt.% PSMS (Fabric-6% PSMS) were reduced by 42.9% and 31.5% respectively, as opposed to those of neat PTFE/aramid fabric composites (Fabric-0%). The service life of Fabric-6% PSMS under radial pressure of 240 MPa was increased by 5.3 times as compared with that of Fabric-0%. The wear mechanisms of Fabric-6% PSMS revealed that SiO2 particles promoted the formation of metal-F bonds on the shaft surfaces and further improved the abrasive resistance of transfer films.