Effects of Mechanical Properties of Tribo-film on Frictional Phenomena under Lubrication with CVTF

Abstract

A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is one of the automotive transmissions that transmits torque by the frictional force between the belt and the pulley. CVT fluid (CVTF) is designed to control the frictional force under the boundary lubrication. In this study, the mechanical properties of the tribo-film derived from the CVTF were investigated by nanoindentation technique. In addition, surface analysis methods such as TOF-SIMS, FIB-SEM-EDX, and AFM were used to elucidate the chemical composition and microstructure of the tribo-film. The relationship between mechanical properties and frictional behavior was discussed based on the surface analysis