Abstract:

By use of vacuum four-ball tribometer, the tribological behaviors of a series of base oils with fluorine were evaluated in air and vacuum environment, respectively. The worn surface was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results show that relative to the atmospheric pressure condition, the anti-wear and friction reduction properties of perfluoropolyether oils (PFPE) are all degraded in vacuum, while the anti-wear properties of the fluorosilicone oils is improved and the friction reduction ability becomes poor in the same environment. This is due to the formation of new substance with Fe-Si bond during the friction process.

Key words: fluorosilicone oil, lubrication mechanism, high vacuum, perfluoropolyether, anti-wear and friction reduction properties