Adhesive Transfer operates during Galling

TL;DR

This paper investigates the adhesive transfer process during galling in stainless steels, revealing how shear stresses and material differences influence galling mechanisms, which can inform the development of more resistant materials for PWR valves.

Contribution

It demonstrates that adhesive transfer occurs during galling at low stresses and highlights the role of manganese differences in stainless steels, advancing understanding of galling mechanisms.

Findings

Adhesive transfer occurs during galling at 50 MPa shear stress.

Manganese differences influence galling behavior.

Understanding galling mechanisms aids in developing resistant steels.

Abstract

In order to reduce cobalt within the primary circuit of pressurised water reactors (PWRs), wear-resistant steels are being researched and developed. In particular interest is the understanding of galling mechanisms, an adhesive wear mechanism which is particularly prevalent in PWR valves. Here we show that large shear stresses and adhesive transfer occur during galling by exploiting the 2 wt per cent manganese difference between 304L and 316L stainless steels, even at relatively low compressive stresses of 50 MPa. Through these findings, the galling mechanisms of stainless steels can be better understood, which may help with the development of galling resistant stainless steels.