Modifying tribological performances of AISI 316 stainless steel surfaces by laser surface texturing and various solid lubricants

Severe wear is the primary failure mechanism of AISI 316 stainless steel in tribological applications. The use of surface textures is a well-known method to improve mechanical property of contact surfaces. In this paper, micro-textures were produced on the steel surface by laser ablation process. Different types of solid lubricants were filled into the micro-scale textures, including CaF2, h-BN, WS2, and graphite. Dry sliding tests were conducted to examine the tribological performance of the prepared samples. Results showed that severe plastic deformation occurred on both patterned and flat samples. The patterned sample burnished with CaF2 solid lubricants did not show any apparent decrease in average friction coefficient. Almost all h-BN solid lubricants were squeezed out of the contact area, causing a high friction coefficient. Both patterned samples burnished with WS2 or graphite solid lubricants showed a relatively low friction coefficient. The lubricating tribofilm existed on the worn area can protect the prepared samples from further wear damage. This study provides a basis for the proper selection of solid lubricants in industrial applications.