Analysis of high friction conditions of Ti–6Al–4V alloy on tantalum by Raman spectroscopy and X-ray fluorescence

High friction conditions between tantalum and titanium alloy are analyzed. An experimental ballistic set-up was used to combine high sliding speed (34 m/s in this study) and high normal pressure (44.5 Mpa). Initial stages of friction were analyzed by a single friction pass. Raman spectroscopy and X-ray fluorescence analysis were used to examine the sliding surfaces. The presence of TiO2 in anatase form is detected over small localized zones in order of few microns. This observation confirms a rapid and very localized rise in temperature on the friction surface as soon as the friction phase begins. The tendency of titanium alloys to transfer material on the tantalum specimen (less than 10 μm in thickness) is highlighted despite the high sliding velocity. The evolution of the surface roughness following tearing of micro weldings was quantified by a profilometer.