Micromechanical and tribological properties of polymeric coating on metal surface

The study investigates the potential of polymeric coatings to enhance the tribological performance of metal surfaces, with a focus on PTFE, ABS, and PVC. The research involves the fabrication of polymer-coated stainless steel discs using compression molding and the evaluation of their mechanical properties through micro-indentation tests. The tribological behavior of the coated discs is assessed using a ball-on-disc tribometer under various loading conditions. The results reveal significant differences in the friction and wear characteristics of the three polymers. PVC demonstrates exceptional wear resistance due to its high hardness and chemical stability, making it an excellent anti-wear coating. On the other hand, PTFE exhibits the lowest coefficient of friction, attributed to its low surface energy and self-lubricating properties, making it ideal for applications requiring minimal friction. The study also explores the wear mechanisms and surface morphologies of the coated discs, providing insights into the interaction between the polymer coatings and the counterface material. The findings underscore the potential of these polymer coatings to improve the performance and longevity of metal components in various industrial applications, offering a promising solution for reducing friction and wear in tribological systems.