An insight into the effect of rough surfaces and contact orientation on the fretting characteristics of quenched and tempered steel

The effect of a rough, textured surface and contact orientations on the fretting behavior of self-mated martensitic 34CrNiMo6+QT steel was examined via a large annular flat-on-flat contact. A friction study accompanied by microscopy analyses was performed to provide a clear insight into fretting characteristics. In gross sliding, the rough surface revealed a lower delayed friction peak and the same steady-state friction as the fine-ground smooth one. In partial slip, the stable friction threshold was around 0.5 for both surfaces. The oxidation-abrasion and its combination with adhesion were observed as wear mechanisms in partial slip and gross sliding, respectively.