Tribological characteristics of W2C reinforced Mn copper-nickel alloy matrix composite coating for rig disc brake

As one of the key components of drilling rig, the tribological properties of the rig disc brake directly affect the efficiency and safety of oil/gas drilling process. In this study, a newly developed W2C reinforced Mn copper-nickel alloy matrix for disc brake material were prepared on 45 steel substrate by non-pressure impregnation method. Micro-structure and tribological properties of the composite coatings at different specific pressures and rotation speeds were investigated. The results showed that a good bond was formed at the interface of W2C and Mn copper-nickel alloy, and the bonding between the coating and the 45 steel matrix was also reliable. The COF changed periodically, but became stable at high load or high speed. Moreover, the wear resistance was significantly improved compared with the commonly used 16 Mn material. Eventually, the wear mechanism was well discussed and summarized that the wear process was a dynamic process of W2C particle fatigue falling and the change of the surface film, which was the result of the joint action of various wear mechanisms.