Tribology

Tribology - SEM Surface analysisTribology is the science of interactions between materials in its environment.  It provides information on the friction and wear characteristics of components under relative motion.  

Over the years both companies and academics have invested heavily in tribology to improve their understanding on why their machines fails.  This lead to a better selection in material combinations, development of new coatings and lubricants and overall better design of components.  As a result machines have not only became more efficient to run, it also enables developments of machines with higher speeds, pressures and temperature capability.

Tribo Coatings

SEM Coatings Failure

  • Coatings is a cost effective method to improve the Tribology of materials.
  • Selection is dependent on the base material compatibility and the application.
  • Incorrect selection can result in crack growth or poor adhesion.
  • We have extensive test experiences with a range of hard and soft carbon based coatings.

Tribo Testing

Pin on Disc testing

  • Tribo testing is a reliable method of simulating the test conditions in a controlled laboratory environment.
  • Recognised as a cost effective method for proving failure modes analysis and testing of proposed solutions.
  • We can offer test programs using our tribometers or assist with designs of new test rigs to simulate your test conditions.

Surface Texturing

SEM - NANO Surface Texturing

  • Surface finishes plays an important role to the tribology of materials.
  • Super-polish finishes can help reduce friction but may not always be the optimal solution.
  • Surface texturing has some unique advantages over smooth surfaces such as reducing aerodynamic drag.
  • Texturing with engineered patterns on surfaces has also proven to enhancing load capacities and lubricants entrapment.

Forensics Analysis

SEM - Polished Surface

  • Determining the root cause of failures is often a complex process.
  • We offer forensic services on failed parts using our laboratory equipment.
  • Our in-depth understanding in the tribology of materials can assist you in finding a robust solution.

Papers on Tribology

A Comparative Study of the Wear Resistance of Thermoplastic and Thermoset Coatings [PDF]
Y.M. Xu and B.G. Mellor
Wear 255 (2003) 722–733.

Development of Surface Finish During the Polishing of Porcelain Ceramic Tiles [PDF]
I. M. HUTCHINGS, Y. XU, E. SANCHEZ, M. J. IBANEZ, M. F. QUEREDA
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE 40 (2005) 37– 42

Measurement of 9 mm Cartridge Case External Temperatures and its Forensic Application [PDF]
B. Gashi, M.R. Edwards, P.A. Sermon, L. Courtney, D. Harrison, Y. Xu
Forensic Science International 200 (2010) 21–27