EFFECTS OF MN CONTENT ON THE TRIBOLOGICAL BEHAVIORS OF ZN-27-PERCENT AL-2-PERCENT CU ALLOY

Friction and wear characteristics of a Zn-27% Al-2% Cu alloy, modified with Ti and misch metal, with different Mn contents, coupled with ste el have been studied. A pin-on-disk tribometer was used to measure the friction coefficient of alloy samples under different loads, speeds a nd lubricating conditions while the wear volume and temperature rise o f the lubricant were measured by a cylinder-on-ring wear tester. Frict ion and wear characteristics of these Mn-containing alloys were compar ed with those of ZA-27. Effects of Mn content on the tribological beha viors and microstructures were studied and the relationships between t he tribological characteristics and the microstructures of the alloy w ere also analyzed. Experimental results indicate that the addition of Mn can significantly improve the tribological behaviors of the Zn-27% Al-2% Cu alloy. Finally, an optimum Mn content for the best overall me chanical properties and tribological behaviors was obtained.