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Dynamic evolution of interface roughness during friction and wear processes.
K J Kubiak1, M Bigerelle, T G Mathia
1University of Leeds, School of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Engineering Thermofluids, Surfaces and Interfaces (iETSI), Leeds, United Kingdom; Université de Valenciennes et du Hainaut-Cambrésis, TEMPO EA 4542, Valenciennes Cedex 9, France.
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|February 27, 2013
Summary
Surface roughness dynamically evolves during friction and wear, influenced by initial conditions. Poor initial surface finishing significantly reduces the lifespan of mechanical parts under severe contact.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Tribology
- Surface Engineering
Background:
- Surface roughness is a critical parameter influencing the performance and longevity of mechanical components.
- Understanding the dynamic evolution of surface roughness under tribological conditions is essential for predicting component failure.
- Initial surface topography can significantly impact wear behavior and component lifespan.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally investigate the dynamic evolution of surface roughness during friction and wear.
- To analyze the influence of initial surface roughness on wear behavior and interface evolution.
- To understand the multiscale nature of wear-induced surface morphology.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of mirror-polished and rough surfaces on Ti-6Al-4V and AISI 1045 steel samples.
- Friction and wear testing using a linear reciprocating tribometer in a sphere/plane configuration with small displacements (130-200 µm).
- Multiscale analysis of surface morphology evolution.
Main Results:
- Surface roughness undergoes rapid degradation initially, then converges to a system-specific level, but continues to increase.
- Initial roughness influences the dynamic evolution of roughness, indicating a rheological effect at the interface.
- Wear-induced surface morphology comprises nano-, micro-, and macro-scale roughness features.
- Poor initial surface finishing leads to a significantly shorter lifespan for mechanical parts in severe contact conditions.
Conclusions:
- The dynamic evolution of surface roughness is a complex process influenced by initial conditions and tribosystem history.
- Multiscale roughness features develop during wear, impacting component performance.
- Optimizing initial surface finishing is crucial for enhancing the durability and lifespan of mechanical parts subjected to severe contact.
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