Influence of basalt particles on tribological properties of polymeric composites intended for friction contacts in means of transport

The article presents the basics of the production and the results of tribological tests of a composite with an epoxy resin matrix with increased elasticity (Havel LGH 288) containing basalt particles (BP) in the amount of 20, 30 and 40 wt.% as the reinforcing phase, for friction elements of technical means of transport. Comparative tests were performed on a T-01 tribological tester at ambient temperature with pressure p = 5 MPa and relative speed v = 1 m/s, friction distance s = 1000 m. The tester reproduces the brake pad/disc contact. As a result of the tests, it was found that the developed composite material can rubbing against GJL-250 cast iron used for brake discs. The coefficient of friction in the contact stabilizes after runningin of the contact regardless of the particle content (µ = 0.5). The wear of the composite brake pad decreases, and the wear of the cast iron disc increases along with the content of basalt particles. The reason for such tribological properties is the high hardness of the basalt. The basalt particles cutting the cast iron intensify its wear. Their surface after running-in increases the actual contact area, which reduces the coefficient of friction. The matrix wear debris is deposited on the surfaces of the basalt particles. The heat generated by friction causes a local temperature increase on the basalt particles coated with wear debris, which results in a decrease in the coefficient of friction to 0.5, regardless of the BP content.