Distribution effect of surface texture on the elastic deformation in soft contacts

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to experimentally investigate the elastic deformation behavior of surface texture in soft contacts under lubricated condition.

Design/methodology/approach

Dimples with two typical distribution patterns are fabricated on the contacting surface by Quasi-LIGA technique. In situ observation on the elastic deformation of contacting surface is performed through optical interferometry. Comparisons of the elastic deformation around the dimples in different distribution patterns are conducted.

Findings

The results show that the effect of dimple distribution patterns on elastic deformation becomes increasingly serious with the growth of applied load. Dimples in square distribution present a stronger interaction with each other and lead to a more alleviative deformation under heavier load condition. The action range of dimple, especially in square distribution, is seriously compressed by surrounding dimples.

Originality/value

Square distribution is preferentially suggested for surface texture with respect to minimum elastic deformation in soft contacts under elastohydrodynamic lubrication condition.

Citation

Su, B., Huang, W. and Wang, X. (2019), "Distribution effect of surface texture on the elastic deformation in soft contacts", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 71 No. 10, pp. 1194-1199. https://doi.org/10.1108/ILT-03-2019-0081