Douglas G. Placek

Phosphate ester surface treatment for reduced wear and corrosion protection

Abstract Engine, machinery, or tool wear are highest at start-up when surfaces are cold, and an insufficient oil film is present to protect against asperity contact. Neutral phosphate esters can be used to pre-treat metal surfaces to reduce start-up wear and to provide corrosion protection during manufacturing, storage, and shipment. Inorganic phosphating techniques are well known but have a variety of limitations. The use of an organophosphate surface treatment is suggested as a new technique for improving the life and performance of iron- or copper-containing parts. Protective films have been applied to ball-bearing surfaces, and evaluated to determine their performance advantages. The phosphate films were found to orfer significant friction and wear reduction, in addition to protecting the bearings from rust in a 100% humidity chamber. The applied films were analyzed to identify their composition and morphology.