Vapor-Deposited Thin Gold Films as Lubricants in Vacuum (10-11 mm Hg)
Abstract
Thin gold films were vapor deposited on nickel, nickel-chromium, and nickel rhenium surfaces to be used for lubrication purposes. The durability of the film was determined by friction characteristics. Durability and strong bonding (adhesion) between the film and the substrate are essential when thin films are used as lubricants. Two methods of substrate preparation for vapor deposition were investigated: (1) mechanical polishing and (2) electron bombardment. Friction experiments were conducted with a hemispherical niobium rider sliding on the deposited gold film on a rotating disk. Results of this investigation indicated that the film endurance life during friction experiments was increased when the substrate was electron bombarded and thermally etched prior to vapor deposition on the etched surface at an elevated temperature of 800 deg F. A diffusion-type interface was believed to be formed between the film and the substrate.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- ADA400811
Entities
People
- Donald H. Buckley
- Talivaldis Spalvins
Organizations
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration