Some PTFE composites sliding in water against steel

This paper presents experimental results on tribological behaviour of PTFE and seven commercially available grades of composites with PTFE matrix. The authors pointed out tribological characteristics (wear and friction coefficient) for an average pressure range of 0.7...4.6 MPa. Low friction coefficient sustains the idea that water and water-like fluids may form very thin film. An isothermal model was simulated and the result confirm that material with higher conformability are more suitable for water lubricated bearings. Adding glass fibber or carbon powder in PTFE makes the tribological behaviour to become better but depending on the concentration and mechanical characteristics of the reinforcement material.