Tribological characteristics of HVOF sprayed Fe-based composite coatings at elevated temperatures

Abstract

This study evaluates the tribological performance of Fe-based composite coatings for aerospace and automotive applications, focusing on wear resistance at elevated temperatures. The coatings, comprising 15% WC-Co and Cr<inf>3</inf>C<inf>2</inf> in an SS316L matrix, were deposited onto maraging steel via HVOF spraying. Microstructural analysis and adhesive strength testing confirmed strong particle bonding, with the coatings achieving a hardness of 711 ± 14?HV. Dry sliding wear behaviour was assessed using a ball-on-disc tribometer with alumina as the counterface under 10?N and 30?N loads at 25?°C, 300?°C, and 600?°C. Results indicated a decrease in the coefficient of friction and specific wear rate with increasing load and temperature. At 600?°C, wear rates were reduced by ?97.56% (10?N) and ?97.12% (30?N) than uncoated steel. Abrasive wear dominated at room temperature, while adhesive and oxidative wear mechanisms emerged at 600?°C, attributed to protective glaze layer formation. © The Author(s) 2025.