Modelling the tribological response in dry sliding of boron modified as-cast Ti6Al4V on hardened steel

Tribological characteristics of boron modified as-cast Ti6Al4V alloys are not very well known, but these alloys enjoy improved as-cast mechanical properties and favourable manufacturing economy. Experimental results are reported here for the effects of sliding speed and normal load on the wear rate and the coefficient of friction in dry sliding of these alloys on hardened EN 31 steel. Alloys having 0%, 0.30%, and 0.55% boron by weight were tested. A full factorial experiment assessed the effects of boron content, speed, and load on wear and friction. Interactions between speed and load were found to be statistically significant in influencing the wear rate and the coefficient of friction. Regression models are developed to predict the wear rate and coefficient of friction responses. The developed contour plots can assist designers in choosing operating conditions when selecting these alloys even if the wear mechanisms are unknown. Evidence shows that the wear resistance of Ti6Al4V can be improved by boron addition, and wear regimes are sensitive to boron content.