Construction and properties of high-speed steel self-healing friction interface induced by femtosecond laser

Purpose This paper aims to explain how the surfaces of components made of high-speed steel face significant wear and performance degradation problems under harsh working conditions. There is an urgent need to construct friction interfaces with multi-functional synergistic effects to enhance their service stability. Design/methodology/approach An interface optimization strategy integrating femtosecond laser texture and lubricant composite filling is proposed. By constructing a periodic grid-like microstructure and introducing the Sn/MoS2 two-component lubrication system, the synergistic enhancement of friction behavior regulation and the self-healing function of the lubricating medium have been achieved. Findings The friction coefficient of this composite structure is reduced by approximately 93.1%, and the wear amount is reduced by approximately 99.3%, demonstrating excellent interface stability and lubrication persistence. This is mainly attributed to the existence of micro-textures, which reduces the actual frictional contact area. As the storage and re-release unit of the lubricant, it can delay the dissipation of the lubricant and maintain a stable lubrication state. After the textured edge is hardened by femtosecond laser treatment, it has higher local hardness, which can inhibit the propagation of microcracks and improve the shear resistance. Originality/value The introduced Sn/MoS2 two-component lubrication system shows good interface adaptability and evolution ability under the joint drive of frictional heat and load. This study provides new design ideas and an experimental basis for the construction of interface functions for high-strength alloy materials.