Synergistic lubrication effects of Sn-Ag-Cu and MXene-Ti3C2 to improve tribological properties of M50 bearing steel with microporous channels

Purpose - This paper aims to study the synergistic lubrication effects of Sn-Ag-Cu and MXene-Ti3C2 to improve the tribological properties of M50 bearing steel with microporous channels. Design/methodology/approach - M50 matrix self-lubricating composites (MMSC) were designed and prepared by filling Sn-Ag-Cu and MXene-Ti(3)C(2 )in the microporous channels of M50 bearing steel. The tribology performance testing of as-prepared samples was executed with a multifunction tribometer. The optimum hole size and lubricant content, as well as self-lubricating mechanism of MMSC, were studied. Findings - The tribological properties of MMSC are strongly dependent on the synergistic lubrication effect of MXene-Ti(3)C(2 )and Sn-Ag-Cu. When the hole size of microchannel is 1 mm and the content of MXene-Ti(3)C(2 )in mixed lubricant is 4 wt.%, MMSC shows the lowest friction coefficient and wear rate. The Sn-Ag-Cu and MXene-Ti(3)C(2 )are extruded from the microporous channels and spread to the friction interface, and a relatively complete lubricating film is formed at the friction interface. Meanwhile, the synergistic lubrication of Sn-Ag-Cu and MXene-Ti(3)C(2 )can improve the stability of the lubricating film, thus the excellent tribological property of MMSC is obtained. Originality/value - The results help in deep understanding of the synergistic lubrication effects of Sn-Ag-Cu and MXene-Ti(3)C(2 )on the tribological properties of M50 bearing steel. This work also provides a useful reference for the tribological design of mechanical components by combining surface texture with solid lubrication.