Science and Mathematics Faculty Publications

Tribological Characteristics of Perfluoropolyether Liquid Lubricants Under Sliding Conditions in High Vacuum

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-1994

Journal Title

Journal of Sythetic Lubrication

Volume

11

Issue

2

First Page

111

Last Page

119

Abstract

Tribological characteristics of three PFPEs (Fomblin Z, Demnum, and Krytox) were studied under high vacuum using a four-ball apparatus with 440C steel specimens. Fomblin Z and Demnum exhibited initial scuffing-like high friction whereas Krytox did not. Steady state friction with Fomblin Z was the lowest among the three oils and that with Demnum and Krytox was almost the same. The lowest wear rates in air were provided by Krytox regardless of load and low wear rates in vacuum at high load were achieved with Krytox and Demnum. Results are explained by reactivity and pressure-viscosity characteristics of the oils.

Keywords

perfluoropolyether, PFPE, sliding, air, high vacuum, friction, wear, load, pressure—viscosity

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