Sliding tribological characteristics of Zr-based bulk metallic glass

Wear and friction characteristics of Zr-based bulk metallic glass under dry sliding conditions are investigated. This study demonstrates that load and sliding speed significantly affect the wear characteristics of bulk metallic glass material and sliding distance is less effective on wear. Critical sliding speed and normal force limits, 1 m/s and 10 N, respectively, are distinguished. Overall average coefficient of friction value was in the range of 0.35-0.45, better than that of conventional structural materials such as AISI 6061-T6 and AISI 304. Analysis of the worn surface revealed that the bulk metallic glass was exposed to inhomogeneous shear deformation, adhesive wear, and abrasive wear during sliding test. Three sizes of wear debris, oversize flakes, machining chips and powder-like debris, are collected. There was no change recorded in surface and cross-sectional hardness measurements after the sliding test. This study concludes that bulk metallic glass is better in general friction characteristics than conventional structural materials such as AISI 6061-T6 and AISI 304.