Effect of the geometric parameter difference of multilayer structural transfer film on the wear of PTFE-based composites

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the geometric parameter difference of the terrace-like structural transfer film under different working parameters [pressure and velocity (PV) values] and filled particle types (three fillers: SiO2, TiO2 and ZnO), and find the geometric parameter related to the wear of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)-based composites. Design/methodology/approach PTFE composites were filled with SiO2, TiO2 and ZnO particles, and the morphology parameter of the PTFE composite transfer film under different PV values obtained from the rotary reciprocating pin-on-disk frictional tester was quantified by using a three-dimensional laser scanning microscope. Findings The results showed that the effective layer coverage rate and effective thickness of the transfer film had a good relationship with the wear of the three PTFE composites. On the whole, increasing the speed or load was helpful to increase the effective thickness of the three PTFE composite transfer films, but reduced the effective layer coverage rate. The greater the effective layer coverage rate and effective thickness of the transfer film, the better the wear resistance of the PTFE composites in the entire speed and load range. Originality/value This work will promote further understanding of the transfer film and lay a foundation for realizing its morphology regulation and improving the wear of the PTFE composites.