In the present paper wear behavior of plain carbon steel having pearlitic phase under dry sliding condition has been investigated. Compositions, morphologies and microstructures of worn surfaces were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis (EDS) and optical microscopy. Volumetric wear rate was investigated for these pins on a pin on disc wear testing machine. In pearlitic phase the wear mechanism observed was mainly abrasive and oxidative type. Further, it was also observed that for pearlitic phase the wear rate increases with an increase in normal pressure and sliding speed. In pearlitic phase, the presence of hard carbide in the soft matrix of ferrite led to lower volumetric wear rate. Also, pearlitic phase is not affected by prolonged exposure to sliding conditions at low sliding speed and low normal pressure either by oxidation or by adhesion process. At higher sliding speeds and normal pressures pearlitic phase wears from more to severe. Pearlitic phase wears faster at medium normal pressures and sliding speeds combinations. At higher normal pressure volumetric wear rate of pearlitic structure is reduced due to removal of asperities, strain induced plastic deformation and work hardening of the wear surface.

Volumetric Wear, Normal Pressure, Sliding Speed, Pearlite, Friction Force and Friction Coefficient