Adhesive transfer operates during galling

In order to reduce cobalt within the primary circuit of pressurised water reactors (PWR’s), wear-resistant steels are being researched and developed. particular interest is understanding galling mechanisms, an adhesive wear mechanism which particularly prevalent in PWR valves. Here we show that large shear stresses transfer occur during by exploiting 2 wt.% manganese difference between 304L 316L stainless steels, even at relatively low compressive 50MPa. Through these findings, mechanisms can be better understood, may help with development resistant steels.