Abstract
The friction characteristics of Ni-graphite composites electrodeposited on the surfaces of tools used for plastic forming of metals were studied by measuring coefficients of friction and by examining the characteristics of tool surfaces after ring compression of aluminum alloy. The coefficient of friction reached a minimum of 0.12 with a composite deposited by using a electrolyte including 20g/L of graphite and no surface active agent, at a current density of 3A/dm2, a pH of 6 and a temperature of 80°C. When a non-ionic surface active agent was used, the graphite content in the composite increased but the coefficient of friction also increased as much as that of Ni plate. The graphite particles deposited with Ni particles still remained in the composite after five tests and the composites seem to be capable of acting as good lubricants in plastic metal forming.
