Abstract: Polytetrafluroethylene (PTFE) is an important engineering material. When rubbed or slide against a hard surface, PTFE exhibits a low coefficient of friction but a high rate of wear. So to enhance the wear rate of PTFE, different fillers are added. In this study, the effect of load and sliding velocity on friction and wear of materials made of PTFE and PTFE composites with filler materials such as 25% carbon, 40% bronze, 15% glass fiber, 15% glass fiber + 5% MoS2 at wet condition are studied. The experimental work has performed on pin-on-disc friction and wear test rig and analyzed with the help of Design Expert software. The results of experiments are presented in tables and graphs which shows that the addition of carbon, bronze, glass filler to the pure PTFE decreases wear rate significantly and there is slight increase in coefficient of friction. The highest wear resistance was found for 15% glass fiber + 5% MoS2 filled PTFE followed by 35% carbon, 25% carbon, 15% glass fiber, 40% bronze and pure PTFE. Through this study, we can suggests the best suitable self lubricating material for sugarcane milling roller journal bearings to enhance the wear life. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was utilized to examine composite microstructures and study modes of failure.
Keywords: Design of Experiment, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Polytetrafluroethylene (PTFE)