Study on Tribological and Friction Noise Performance of Ti6Al4V Self-lubricating Composites

Friction noise will not only affect the life of equipment, but also endanger human health. It is imperative to reduce the friction noise of mechanical system. Tribological properties and friction noise of Ti6Al4V alloy (TC4) and Ti6Al4V-4.6 wt.% MoS2-3.7 wt.% TiC (TMT) self-lubricating composites under 5, 10 and 15 N at 0.2 m/s are investigated using a self-built friction noise experimental apparatus. The results show that MoS2 and TiC have the good synergistic effects on tribological and friction noise performance. A lubricating film enriched with MoS2 is formed on the worn surface to reduce the stick-slip and surface roughness, and the energy of transition on the worn surface is reduced; hence, the friction noise is decreased. TiC can improve the hardness and wear resistance of TMT, and it supports the lubricating film to hinder the development of plowing grooves and peeling pits to a deeper level. The worn surface and friction noise performance of TMT are best at 10 N. This study has the far-reaching implications for improving the tribological properties and inhibiting friction noise of TC4 alloys.