Frictional Properties of Stainless Steel
Frictional coefficients are perhaps more dependent on surface rather than material properties. Surface finish, cleanliness and lubrication of the mating surface largely determine the actual frictional resistance between mating surfaces.
Friction coefficients
A figure of 0.58 for unlubricated, self-mating, clean steel surface has been quoted and this may be taken as a guide for most stainless steel (austenitic, ferritic and duplex). The martensitic types, when hardening, may have lower frictional coefficients, nearer to the 0.2 values quoted for lubricated, hardened steel self-mating surface.
The corrosion resistance of stainless steel means that the surface characteristics, including frictional properties, are unlikely to be affected in service due to corrosion issues, provided the correct grade has been selected.
The softer, high ductility austenitic types, such as 304 and 316, can suffer from galling and, in extreme cases, seizure (cold welding). The frictional properties under these conditions can be significantly affected. Surface finish (including tolerances) and lubrication play an important role in preventing galling and seizure.
Related References:
1. Galling Resistance of Stainless Steel
2. Factors Affect Wear and Galling
3. Improve Wear and Galling Resistance of Stainless Steel
4. Frictional Properties of Stainless Steel
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