Powder Iron–Glass Material: Mechanism of Wear in Vacuum

The wear mechanism of powder iron–glass material is analyzed. The behavior of PS5GSh–PS5GSh and of PS5GSh–hardened steel 45 during friction in vacuum is studied. It is established that the glass inclusions and “white layer” formed on the friction surface influence the wear-resistance of the iron-glass material. It is noted that increased hardness leads the glass inclusions to form a near-surface framework, resisting the plastic deformation on the surface and inside the material. It is shown that the white inclusions have low friction adhesion and thus prevent seizure with steel. The “white layer” adheres strongly to the material. It acts as a solid lubricant and, along with the glass inclusions, increases the wear resistance. Extreme gross wear is accompanied by active growth and failure of the “white layer” as scales on dislocation slip planes located at an angle to the friction surface. The wear mechanism of the powder iron–glass materials under simultaneous contact of steel and glass is studied.