The friction coefficient of elastomer composites sliding on a cast iron surface has been investigated. The parameters studied were pressure, sliding speed and surface temperature. The most important finding of this experimental investigation is that the friction coefficient is highly dependent on the surface structure which is in a state of continuous change during the test. This phenomenon is the cause of greatest variation in the friction coefficient. Increasing temperatures result in lower friction coefficients. For the investigated parameter intervals the friction coefficient showed a small or an inconsistent dependence on pressure and sliding velocity. Two methods have been developed to measure the temperature of the contact surface of the test sample. In the parameter interval of this test program, no more than a 3-4 °C temperature increase over the environment is normally obtained for the highest speeds and pressures. The heat generated in the frictional contact is mostly conducted away through the cast iron disk and not through the elastomer composite. © 1990.
