Simple synthesis of the composite coating and the lubrication mechanisms of the spherical SnAgCu–Al2O3

Abstract Tribological behavior of coatings plays a crucial role in increasing the service life of aerospace components and biological devices. In this study, spherical SnAgCu–Al2O3 (S-(SA)) and Ti–S-(SA) coatings were prepared. Herein, using a ball-on-flat tribometer, the optimal tribological property of the Ti–S-(SA) was obtained at a load of 16 N. The SnAgCu-enriched film achieved good deformation during wear and induced the rolling of spherical Al2O3, which resulted in excellent lubrication. The friction and wear behaviors of the Ti–S-(SA) coatings were further optimized at a temperature (235 °C) close to the melting point of SnAgCu (240 °C). This resulted in excellent flow of SnAgCu, which, in turn, enhanced the rolling friction with the Al2O3, thus furnishing better lubrication. We believe that this study will be beneficial for enhancing the tribological characteristics of coatings and determining the possible solutions for commercial applications.