Friction characteristics of magneto-rheological fluid on DLC- and PTFE-coated surfaces

In this study, the friction characteristics of a magneto-rheological fluid are examined with different surface process technologies such as polytetrafluoroethylene coatings and diamond-like carbon coatings by using a reciprocating friction tester. The friction characteristics of the magneto-rheological fluid are also examined with diamond-like carbon coatings at various temperatures. The substrate material (plate) used for coating with diamond-like carbon and polytetrafluoroethylene is aluminum (Al6061), which is widely used in engineering applications. The descending sequence of the coefficients of friction is Al6061>diamond-like carbon>polytetrafluoroethylene. The surfaces are observed by scanning electron microscopy before and after the experiment. In addition, the chemical compositions of the worn surfaces were analyzed using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. By comparing the results, the friction characteristics of the magneto-rheological fluid are analyzed based on the different coating methods.