The Influence of Surface Texture Orientation on the Current-Carrying Friction Performance of Elastic Pairs

To improve the performance of elastic current-carrying friction pairs, this study employs a wire–plate friction pair and investigates the effect of surface texture orientation on current-carrying friction performance using a self-made micro-sliding current-carrying friction wear tester. The following conclusions were drawn: The angle between texture orientation and friction direction primarily influences the friction pair’s lifespan. At 0°, the lifespan is the longest, exceeding 500 cycles, followed by 90° with a lifespan of 394 cycles, and the shortest lifespan is observed with multi-directional textures. The primary wear mechanisms during the lifespan are furrowing, adhesive tearing, arc erosion, oxidation, and material transfer. At 0°, the width of mechanical damage is confined to the furrows, and the arc erosion is minimal. At 90°, the mechanical damage width and arc erosion are moderate, while at 45°, 135°, and multi-directional orientations, the mechanical wear width and arc erosion are more severe, with the multi-directional texture having the widest mechanical wear. The texture orientation has a significant impact on the performance and running process of current-carrying friction pairs. An appropriate texture orientation can suppress wear, thereby enhance performance and extending service life.