A Study of the Static/Kinetic Friction Behavior of PTFE-Based Fabric Composites

Three different polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)-based fabric composites were prepared. The static/kinetic friction behaviors of these composites under different loads and speeds were studied. A 3D laser microscope and profile measurement apparatus were used for analysis of the morphology and weave structure of the composites, and the contact temperature of these composites under different loads and speeds was monitored continuously using a high-precision thermal resistor. In addition, a dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) apparatus was used to explore the thermal and mechanical properties of PTFE-based fabric composites. The results demonstrated that speed/load, weave structure, and fiber form have an important influence on static and kinetic friction behavior of the fabric composites. Generally, the static friction coefficient is greater than the kinetic friction coefficient, except when considering light load conditions. Under light load conditions, the static friction coefficient is equal to the kinetic friction coefficient. In addition, the kinetic friction coefficient first increased and then decreased with increased speed, but the static coefficient increased first and then remained at an almost constant value. At all sliding speeds, the static and kinetic friction coefficients of tape yarn composites are better than those of the multifilament yarn composites. Weave structure has no effect on the static friction coefficient, but it has a significant influence on the kinetic friction coefficient.