Friction properties of composites of the system TiN-AlN. I. Effect of structure and phase composition on friction and wear of materials of the systemTiN-AlN

The tribological properties of ceramic composites of the system TiN - AlN a re studied in the concentration range 10-90% AlN. It was found that materia ls which contain 25, 50, and 75% AlN have a low friction coefficient. Their rate of wear when paired with steel is neglible - 2.9-6.0 mu m/km (the wea r rate of a steel/steel couple is 1000 mu m/km). Thin oxide films are forme d during friction at high velocities and pressures. These films have relati vely high adhesion with respect to materials of the TiN - AlN system and re latively low adhesion with respect to steel. The films may act as a solid l ubricant, thus reducing the friction coefficient and wear. This is particul arly true of the materials 25% TiN - 75% AlN and 50% TiN - 50% AlN.