Plasma-sprayed, self-lubricating coatings for use from cryogenic temperatures to 870 deg C (1600 deg F)

A plasma-sprayed coating is described with good lubricating properties over a wide temperature range. The coating, designated NASA LUBE PS101, contains silver, nichrome, calcium fluoride, and an oxidation protective glass. Oscillating tests were conducted of self-aligning, plain cylindrical bearings, in which the bore was lined with 0.025 cm (0.010 in.) thick coatings of PS101; these were conducted at a radial load of 3.5 x 10 to the 7th power N/sq m (5000 psi) in nitrogen gas at -107 C (-160 F), in vacuum at room temperature, and in air from room temperature to 870 C (1600 F). Friction coefficients were less than 0.25 in all cases and wear rates were low. The coating is not brittle, and it has adequate oxidation resistance in air to at least 870 C.