Friction performance optimization of electroless Ni-P coatings using the Taguchi method

摘要

This paper presents an experimental study of friction characteristics of electroless Ni-P (EN) coatings sliding against steel and optimization of coating process parameters based on the Taguchi method. Experiments are carried out by utilizing the combination of process parameters based on the L-27 Taguchi orthogonal design with four process parameters, namely, bath temperature, concentration of nickel source solution, concentration of reducing agent and annealing temperature. It is observed that concentration of nickel source solution has the most significant influence in controlling friction characteristics of EN coating. The optimum combination of process parameters for minimum friction coefficient is obtained from the analysis. The surface morphology and composition of coatings are also studied with the help of scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersed x-ray analysis and x-ray diffraction analysis.