Would you like to carry out friction testing on DLC?
What is DLC?
DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coatings are a family of carbonaceous materials deposited in thin layers using vacuum deposition technologies. Studied in depth for their tribological properties, they are now widely recognised for their ability to reduce friction and wear. This performance makes them an essential solution in many industrial sectors.
Hydrogen friction testing of DLC
Hydrogen atmosphere friction tests are used to analyse how these coatings react in a hydrogen-rich environment. They are essential for assessing their durability and effectiveness in specific environments, such as those found in the aerospace, automotive (hydrogen fuel cells) and nuclear industries.
Under hydrogen conditions, tribological interactions change: some studies show a reduction in friction, due to the formation of graphene-based lubricating layers, while others reveal accelerated degradation due to the hydrogenation effect, altering the structure of the DLC. These tests make it possible to determine the optimum conditions for using DLC under hydrogen and to adapt its composition (hydrogenated or non-hydrogenated DLC) according to specific constraints. In this context, the characterisation of DLC coatings after exposure to hydrogen is essential.
Why carry out friction testing on DLC?
To assess the tribological performance of a DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating, it is essential to rely on an expert laboratory with state-of-the-art equipment and a tailor-made approach. At the Filab laboratory, we offer our expertise and advanced technologies to guarantee reliable analyses tailored to your industrial needs.
- Evaluate the coefficient of friction: Measure the coating's ability to reduce friction, a key criterion for optimising mechanical performance.
- Analyse wear resistance: test the durability of the coating under variable load, speed and temperature conditions.
- Optimise adhesion: Check the adhesion of the coating to its substrate to avoid any risk of delamination in real-life conditions.
- Understand the evolution of the coating: Study the behaviour of the DLC over the long term, particularly in the event of repeated rubbing.
- Adapt the coating to specific conditions of use: adjust the composition of the DLC and its deposition parameters according to the application environment (automotive, medical, aeronautical, etc.).
- Automotive: optimising engine parts to reduce energy losses due to friction.
- Medical devices: improving the durability of implants and surgical tools.
- Aerospace: protecting components subjected to extreme loads.
- Precision engineering: guaranteed performance for bearings, gears and other moving parts.
The FILAB laboratory carries out friction testing on DLC
Why choose FILAB for your DLC friction tests?
To assess the tribological performance of a DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating, it is essential to rely on an expert laboratory with state-of-the-art equipment and a tailor-made approach. At Filab, we offer our expertise and advanced technologies to guarantee reliable analyses tailored to your industrial needs.
our services
Measurement of the coefficient of friction
Identification of wear mechanisms
our technical resources
FAQ
DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) is a material renowned for its exceptional properties. It is characterised by a high hardness, close to that of diamond, which makes it more resistant to wear. Its low coefficient of friction reduces friction, improving the life of mechanical parts.
DLC also offers excellent corrosion resistance, effectively protecting surfaces against aggressive environments and oxidation. Its biocompatibility makes it a preferred choice for medical applications, particularly implants and surgical instruments. Finally, it is chemically very stable, making it resistant to solvents, acids and bases.
DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) has applications in many sectors thanks to its remarkable properties.
In the automotive industry, it is used as a coating for engine parts to reduce wear and improve fuel efficiency. In the field of medical devices, it is applied to implants, prostheses and surgical tools because of its biocompatibility and resistance to wear.
The aerospace industry also uses DLC to protect components against wear and corrosion in extreme conditions. Finally, the luxury goods and watchmaking industries use it to coat watch cases and bracelets, guaranteeing greater scratch resistance and longevity.
Thanks to its versatility, DLC is an ideal solution for optimising the durability and performance of materials.
