Technical Route Comparison of Diamond Friction Shims: Difference Analysis between Embedding Method and Composite Plating Method
I. Overview of Technical Routes for Diamond Friction Shims
As core components for critical connections in high‑end equipment, the performance of diamond friction shims depends on the fixing mode and distribution state of surface diamond particles. At present, there are two major technical routes in the industry: physical embedding method and chemical composite plating method. The two routes show significant differences in process principle, performance and applicable scenarios.
DAOLER® diamond friction shims adopt Diamond‑Claw® Engagement Technology. Based on the chemical composite plating route, firm fixation and uniform distribution of diamond particles are realized via nickel‑phosphorus‑diamond composite coating.
II. Technical Route of Physical Embedding Method
Process Principle The physical embedding method presses diamond particles into the pre‑nickel‑plated surface by mechanical force, so that particles are partially embedded in the nickel layer. Typically, the substrate is nickel‑plated first. Diamond particles are then embedded into the nickel layer by rolling or stamping, followed by edge‑sealing treatment.
Technical Features
- Relatively simple process and low capital investment for equipment
- High protrusion height of diamond particles, delivering high initial friction coefficient
- Shallow particle embedment depth, with risk of particle detachment in long‑term service
- Particle distribution uniformity is greatly affected by mechanical pressure
- Physical bonding exists between coating and particles with limited bonding strength
Applicable Scenarios Suitable for general‑industrial scenarios with cost sensitivity, relatively stable loads and short maintenance cycles.
III. Technical Route of Chemical Composite Plating Method
Process Principle The chemical composite plating method (also known as co‑deposition method) disperses diamond microparticles evenly in plating bath during electroless nickel‑phosphorus plating. Particles are co‑deposited onto the substrate surface together with nickel‑phosphorus alloy. Diamond particles are encapsulated and fixed by nickel‑phosphorus matrix during deposition to form metallurgical bonding.
Technical Features
- Metallurgical bonding formed between diamond particles and nickel‑phosphorus matrix; high bonding strength against particle detachment
- Uniform particle distribution and consistent friction performance
- Precisely controllable particle grit size, density and embedment depth
- High coating hardness (≥1000 HV) and outstanding wear resistance
- Demanding process control requiring professional equipment and technical accumulation
Technical Realization of DAOLER Diamond‑Claw® Technology Based on chemical composite plating, Diamond‑Claw® Engagement Technology optimizes plating‑bath formulation, deposition parameters and post‑treatment processes to achieve uniform embedment and firm fixation of diamond particles. Particles partially protrude from the surface to form a “claw‑like” structure. Under pre‑load force, they bite into counter‑mating surfaces and establish micro‑mechanical engagement.
IV. Performance Comparison of the Two Technical Routes
表格
| Comparison Item | Physical Embedding Method | Chemical Composite Plating Method (Diamond‑Claw®) |
|---|---|---|
| Particle bonding mode | Mechanical press‑in | Metallurgical bonding |
| Particle bonding strength | Moderate, risk of particle detachment | High, resistant to particle detachment |
| Friction‑coefficient stability | High initial value, fast performance decay | Long‑term stable at ≥0.6 |
| Wear service life | Moderate | Excellent (coating hardness ≥1000 HV) |
| Uniformity of particle distribution | Subject to mechanical‑pressure fluctuation | Uniform and controllable |
| Protection for counter‑mating surfaces | High particle protrusion, risk of surface damage | Precisely controlled, no damage induced |
| Process cost | Relatively low | Relatively high |
| Technical threshold | Low | High |
V. Selection Recommendations
Scenarios where chemical composite plating method is preferred:
- Critical connections for high‑end equipment (wind power, robotics, aerospace)
- Operating conditions with high‑frequency vibration and alternating loads
- Applications requiring superior long‑term stability
- Scenarios where precision flange counter‑mating surfaces need protection
- Equipment with high maintenance cost and expectation for fewer disassembly cycles
Scenarios where physical embedding method may be considered:
- Non‑critical connections of general‑industrial equipment
- Working conditions with stable loads and low vibration
- Cost‑sensitive applications
- Consumable parts subject to regular maintenance and replacement
VI. Continuous Optimization of Diamond‑Claw® Technology
Based on chemical composite plating, DAOLER keeps optimizing the Diamond‑Claw® technical system, including:
- Surface modification of diamond particles to enhance bonding strength with nickel‑phosphorus matrix
- Gradient coating‑structure design balancing surface hardness and substrate toughness
- Precision particle‑grading technology for accurate matching of different grit sizes
- Passivation post‑treatment process for improved corrosion resistance
- Full‑process quality inspection to guarantee batch‑to‑batch consistency
VII. Conclusion
Selection of technical routes for diamond friction shims directly determines connection reliability and equipment service life. Featuring excellent bonding strength, stability and wear resistance, chemical composite plating becomes the preferred technical route for critical connections of high‑end equipment.
Built upon chemical composite plating process, DAOLER® Diamond‑Claw® Engagement Technology delivers self‑controlled, highly‑reliable precision‑connection solutions for various industries, with static friction coefficient ≥0.6, coating hardness ≥1000 HV and ultra‑thin specifications starting from 0.1 mm.
Daoler Technology (Shandong) Co., Ltd. specializes in super‑hard friction‑material field. We keep investing in R&D and innovation of Diamond‑Claw® technology, and are committed to supplying leading diamond friction shim products and technical services for the high‑end‑equipment‑manufacturing industry.
