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Friction and sliding wear behaviour of electrodeposited cobalt and cobalt–tungsten alloy coatings for replacement of electrodeposited chromium

Hard chrome is to be replaced due to EU REACH environmental legislation providing drive for an electrodeposited replacement. Weston and co-workers discovered an electrodeposited, nano-crystalline, cobalt-tungsten coating (patented) as a direct replacement for hard chrome electrodeposits. Goodrich Actuation Systems (now Aero Engine Controls, Terry Hirst, Terry.Hirst@aeroenginecontrols.com) collaborated in the development. The low wear rate and low friction exhibited by Co-W compared to hard chrome has led to one patent granted, one patent application in progress and an EPSRC grant submission. The world-wide market for hard chrome is approximately $3bn per annum. Existing alternatives are too costly and line of sight.