| Abstract: | Nominally flat silicon nitride discs in contact with threeceramic balls were tested in the presence of various lubricatingfluids. Discs were attached to a stationary cup containinglubricant and the balls were driven by a spindle powered by anelectric motor. The balls were free to rotate and, as a resultof that, rolling contact fatigue conditions were created. Theresults obtained show that the type and nature of lubricatingliquid both have a significant effect on the failure modes ofceramic discs. For instance, base hydrocarbon oil producedfailure typical for surface fatigue whereas the failure mode in the case of a liquid containing acid additive suggests atribochemical type of wear. |
