Relationship between flash temperature and wear characteristics in Ni-nano Al₂O₃ coating

Abstract

Ni-nano Al₂O₃ composite coatings were deposited on soft Al6061 substrate material. The microstructures of the thin coatings, adhesive strength, hardness, and tribological behavior were studied. The increase in specific wear rate was observed with an increase in the load applied on the pin. This has also resulted in an increase in the flash temperature. This is attributed to the ploughing effect caused by the increase in the uneven surface contact. The study demonstrates that even under extreme loading conditions the Ni-nano Al₂O₃ composite coating exhibits higher wear resistance. This favors the application of the composite coatings at severe wear conditions.

Keywords:

• Nanocomposite coating
• specific wear rate
• scratch test
• microhardness
• flash temperature