3D-Surface Characterization for Friction Control

For a specific manipulation of friction surfaces it is important to measure and calculate geometrical parameters to derive the tribological behaviour. The understanding of the functional behaviour of a surface requires a holistic approach that includes all geometrical characteristics. Common surface characterization methods are based on parameters, extraction and filtering methods developed for the control of the process parameters independent of their functional interaction.The paper presents the benefit of a new 3D-characterization method based on the holistic extraction of the surface and the calculation of parameters like the real contact surface, number of contacts, the typical contact radius and the typical lateral extension. These are necessary parameters to conclude on the material tension of defined nominal contact stress and the derived adhesion area.