Influence of Surface Roughness on Friction and Wear Characteristics of SUS 321 for Hydraulic Cylinder Parts Application

• Published in: Tribology and Lubricants Vol. 39; no. 6; pp. 244 - 249
• Main Authors: Sung-Jun Lee, Yonghun Jang, Chang-Lae Kim
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 한국트라이볼로지학회 01.12.2023
• Subjects: 기계공학; Laser powder bed fusion; Surface roughness; Friction/wear characteristics; Hydraulic cylinder
• ISSN: 2713-8011; 2713-802X

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the impact of surface roughness on the friction and wear properties of SUS 321, an austenitic stainless steel variant produced using the laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technique, which is a prevalent additive manufacturing method. After the LPBF fabrication, the specimens go a heat treatment process aimed at alleviating residual stress. Subsequently, they are polished extensively to achieve a refined and smooth surface. To deliberately introduce controlled variations in surface roughness, an etching process is employed. This multi-step method encompassed primary etching in a 3M hydrochloric acid solution, followed by secondary etching in a 35 wt% ferric chloride solution, with varying durations applied to different specimens. A comprehensive evaluation of the surface characteristics ensued, employing precise techniques such as surface roughness measurements and meticulous assessments of water droplet contact angles. Following the surface treatment procedures, a series of friction tests are performed to explore the tribological behavior of the etched specimens. This in-depth investigation reached its peak by revealing valuable insights. It clarified a strong correlation between intentionally altered surface roughness, achieved through etching processes, and the resulting tribological performance of LPBF-fabricated SUS 321 stainless steel. This significantly advances our grasp of material behavior in tribological applications. KCI Citation Count: 0