Abstract

Applied use of Silicon infiltrated SiC matrix carbon fiber-reinforced carbon composites (hereinafter referred to as Si-SiC matrix C/C composites) Si-SiC matrix C/C composites to improve the properties of C/C composites for use as materials in sliding parts such as brakes is on the increase. As such, we have investigated the behavior of sliding wear on these materials by measuring and observing the amount of sliding wear volume and friction coefficient of the Si-SiC matrix C/C composites, based upon analysis in which these attributes were converted to dimensionless numbers for evaluation of life-span. Based on the results, we conclude that 1) when contact pressure (compressive stress) is applied to a Si-SiC matrix C/C composite, a difference in level between the contact surfaces occurs according to the difference between the elastic modulus of the C/C composite portion and the Si-SiC matrix portion of the material of which the composite is composed, and this difference in level grinds against the opposing material, causing abrasion, 2) the aforementioned difference in level becomes a primary factor, indicating higher friction coefficient values for Si-SiC matrix C/C composite material than for the friction coefficient of the C/C composite material, and 3) when comparing Si-SiC matrix C/C composite material and C/C composite material as a brake component, the Si-SiC matrix C/C component material is superior, having a higher friction coefficient and a lesser amount of wear volume associated with braking mechanisms (component life is longer).

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