Tribo-magnetization of the PTFE composites containing ferromagnetic fillers of Fe, Co, or Ni

Abstract In this paper, the tribo-magnetization and tribological performances of the Fe(or Co, or Ni)/PTFE composites were studied. The effects of sliding velocity, normal load, and filler content on the tribo-magnetization and tribological performances of the composites were mainly discussed. The micro-morphology of the worn surfaces was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy (OM) to examine the wear behavior and transfer film of the friction couples. It was found that the magnetic flux density, induced by the friction of the composites, slowly increased with the increase of load, gradually decreased with the increase of velocity, and increased with the increasing filler content. The tribo-magnetization behavior of the PTFE composites containing ferromagnetic fillers will promote the aggregation of ferromagnetic particles on the surface. Moreover, the friction and wear of the composites are reduced due to the formation and stability of the frictional transfer film.