Use of Tin-Bismuth (Sn–Bi) Eutectic Alloy in Contact with Austenitic Class Steel for Hydraulic Seals

Quantitative results are presented for a study of the interaction of tin-bismuth eutectic alloy (used as a solder) as the working body of a hydraulic seal in contact with austenitic class steels. Results obtained are compared with steels of a pearlitic class that are used as materials for hydraulic valves. The possibility is also considered of using a procedure for determining wetting according to GOST 23904. Different technologies are studied for surface preparation and non-reproducible results are explained for all of the surface preparation versions considered. Results are given for a demonstration experiment for creating a sealed joint of tin-bismuth alloy in contact with steel of the austenitic class and recommendations are made for its application.