Surface Texturing of Tribological Interfaces Using the Vibromechanical Texturing Method

Modifying the surface topography of tribological interfaces has the potential to improve the friction performance of certain mechanical components that experience sliding contact. Vibromechanical texturing (VMT), an improved texturing method based on the convenient turning process, is introduced. This process is performed on a standard computer numeric controlled (CNC) lathe, which is retrofitted with a piezoelectric-actuated tool positioning stage. Controlled vibratory motion of the tool is used to cut microsized dimples into the surface of the workpiece. Two types of workpiece materials are used: aluminum and hardened steel, with three forms of workpiece geometries: outer cylinder, inner cylinder, and flat/end face. The accuracy of the texturing method is compared with a basic surface topography model, which predicts texture dimensions within an 11% error for aluminum and up to 90% error for hardened steel, using the current open-loop control system. Further analysis of the textured samples shows no significant signs of process-induced damage. It is demonstrated that this VMT method is a versatile, accurate technique that has potential to be a cost-effective means for surface texturing of tribological components.