Physical basis for improving the wear resistance of cermets for tribological performances

The issues of experimental proof of the self-lubrication effect of a metal-ceramic composite based on iron during friction at high temperatures are discussed in this article. The statements about the possibility of creating a working layer of a solid lubricant between the contacting bodies are substantiated. Chalcogen vapors released during the decomposition of the chalcogenide in the cermet structure enter into a chemical reaction with iron and form a solid lubricating coating. Chalcogenides are synthesized by processing cermet in selenium vapor. The formation of a soft layer on the friction surface of the cermet was established. The kinetic indentation method was used to determine the mechanical properties of the surface layers of cermet. High-temperature tests have confirmed the efficiency of processing samples in selenium vapor. Recommendations for the practical application of synthesized cermet samples are formulated.