Friction and wear during twin-disc experiments under ambient and cryogenic conditions

We present a classical rolling contact apparatus where two discs roll and slide under a constant normal loading. Experimental results concerning bearing steel used in ambient air or under severe temperature conditions (liquid nitrogen) are presented. A simplified model proposed by Kalker (Fastsim) is used to identify the dynamic friction coefficient between these discs and to study the apparatus parameters’ influence on dissipated energy. Wear evolution is simulated using classical Archard's law and compared to measured profiles. Influence of ambient conditions is highlighted by comparing friction and wear coefficients.