Estimation of rolling friction coefficients in a tribosystem using optical measurements

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present a method to measure the rolling friction coefficient in an easy and fast way. The aim is also to measure the rolling friction coefficient between a small steel ball and a cylindrical aluminum surface.

Design/methodology/approach

An analytical model of the tribosystem of a freely rolling ball and a cylindrical surface is established. The rolling friction coefficient is evaluated from images recorded by a high-speed camera. The coefficient between a 1.58-mm diameter steel ball and a cylindrical aluminum surface is measured. A background subtraction algorithm is used to determine the position of the small steel ball.

Findings

The angular positions of the ball are predicted using the analytical model, and a good agreement is found between the experimental and theoretical results.

Originality/value

An optical method for evaluating the rolling friction coefficient is presented, and the value of this coefficient between a small steel ball and a cylindrical aluminum surface is evaluated.

Citation

Li, Y., Xi, Y. and Shi, Y. (2018), "Estimation of rolling friction coefficients in a tribosystem using optical measurements", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 70 No. 4, pp. 680-686. https://doi.org/10.1108/ILT-04-2016-0087