Tribological behavior of Cu–6Sn–6Zn–3Pb under sea water, distilled water and dry-sliding conditions

Tribological behaviors of Cu–6Sn–6Zn–3Pb alloy sliding against AISI321 stainless steel under sea water, distilled water and dry sliding conditions are studied on a pin-on-disc tester. Generally, the friction coefficient in distilled water is the largest and the smallest in dry-sliding. However, the wear rate is in the opposite case. The wear mechanism is microplough and plastic deformation in distilled water and under dry-sliding, but much severe in the latter case. In sea water environment, the wear mechanism is microplough, plastic deformation and corrosion. Sea water and distilled water show a cooling effect in comparison with dry sliding, additionally, sea water also has lubricating and corrosive effects.