Multicomponent Antifriction Composite Based on Extrudable Matrix "UHMWPE - HDPE-g-VTMS - PP" for Additive Manufacturing

Abstract

Tribomechanical properties of antifriction composites based on the extrudable matrix "UHMWPE+17 wt. % HDPE-g-VTMS+12 wt. % PP" with chopped fiberglass formed by three methods: Hot Pressing of Powders (HPP), Hot Pressing of Granules (HPG) and Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) was studied. It has been found that a composite fabricated by the FDM method possesses the highest strength properties (elastic modulus, yield strength and tensile strength). It is shown that tribological properties (friction coefficient, volumetric wear) of composites fabricated by the three methods are close to each other that is related to impact of the reinforcing filler (fiberglass). The latter takes on compressive and shearing loads during tribo-loading and improves wear resistance of the composite. The studied multicomponent UHMWPE based composite is recommended for use as a feedstock for the manufacturing antifriction products by additive manufacturing.