Tribological properties of boron carbide in sliding against WC ball

Abstract Friction and wear properties of the hot pressed boron carbide have been investigated at different loads and frequencies under reciprocative sliding, using a counter body of cemented tungsten carbide (WC–Co) ball. Coefficient of friction, wear volume and wear rate were evaluated. Wear mechanism has been analysed by using optical microscopy, SEM-EDS and stylus profilometer techniques. Low coefficient of friction (COF) was measured as 0.15 at 10 N load and 10 Hz frequency. Load enhancement from 3 to 10 N at 10 Hz frequency led to a reduction of COF from 0.20 to 0.15. Specific wear rate of boron carbide has been evaluated in the order of 10− 6 mm3/Nm. Both abrasive and tribo-chemical reaction wear mechanisms are observed on the worn surface of boron carbide (flat).