This paper describes a process optimisation exercise which was undertaken on a Plasmag sputter deposition system to develop lubricating lead films of a quality comparable to those produced by the well-established ion-plating process. The intention of this work was to transfer the lead coating technology to a batch processing system and thereby reduce the unit cost of coating. The methodology and overall results of the exercise leading to optimisation of the Plasmag process are presented. The subsequent validation of optimised lead films for use in space, by application of coatings to ball bearings and their subsequent torque testing in vacuum, is desribed. The sputtering conditions necessary to yield lubricating coatings of lead of comparable quality to those produced by ion-plating have been identified. Tests have demonstrated that adherent lead coatings of the required thickness and uniformity can be applied to bearing raceways using the Plasmag deposition system. Bearings coated with Plasmag lead and fitted with leaded bronze cages have been subjected to validation testing and have met the validation criteria.
Advances in solid lubricant coating technology
Fortschritte in Beschichtungsverfahren bei Festschmierstoffen
2001
4 Seiten, 1 Bild, 2 Tabellen
Conference paper
English
Advances in solid lubricant coating technology
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