Process optimisation of non-cyanide Ag–PTFE metal matrix composite electroplating for threaded connections

Silver–polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) metal matrix composite coatings were deposited onto ANSI 304 stainless steel to assess the potential of using a novel nitrate–succinimide non-cyanide electroplating process to produce a corrosion resistant, self-lubricating composite coating. During this study, 32 different bath parameter sets derived from five variables were used to develop the non-cyanide electroplating process without the use of a surfactant or strike deposit. SEM/EDS as well as XPS microscopy were used to analyse the samples. In addition, the functional characteristics and adhesion strength of the coating were assessed using a bi-directional tribometer (to measure the coefficient of friction) and a pull-off test conducted on an Instron tensile test machine. The experimental results revealed that a friction coefficient of 0.23 was achievable (62% improvement over pure silver coating) where adhesion strength is not a primary consideration. For dry lubrication applications requiring high-coating adhesion strength, the maximum adhesion strength achieved for the Ag–PTFE composite coating was 2.5 MPa (44% reduction over pure silver coating) with a friction coefficient of 0.32 (47% improvement over pure silver coating).