The effects of e-beam irradiation induced cross linking on the friction and wear of polyamide 66 in sliding contact

Tribologically loaded polymer parts such as gears, bearings and other machine elements are exposed to a load spectrum, which is composed, amongst others, of a relative movement, causing heat and wear, and a surface pressure in an application dependent environment. This is especially true for systems without external lubrication, where melting, material fatigue and wear are the lifetime-limiting factors. The continuous operating temperature, mechanical strength and dimensional stability are significantly increased by electron beam irradiation and the related cross linking of the polyamide. Thus, machine elements consisting of this radiation cross linked polymer can be used at higher ambient temperature and resist introduction of higher friction energy. The capability of cross linked polyamide 66 has been ascertained by tribological testing in a pin-on-disc wear device. Radiation cross linking leads to a significant improvement in the performance of tribologically loaded systems.