Effect of Surface Textures in Highly Loaded Grease Lubricated Reciprocating Sliding Contacts

The influence of surface textures on the friction and surface damage of grease lubricated ball on flat fretting and short stroke reciprocating sliding has been investigated. The tested steel and DLC coated steel specimen were given eight different texture patterns and were compared with untextured ground and polished surfaces. The objective is to find optimum treatment of fretting surfaces to endure vibratory contact without suffering severe surface damage, by introducing lubricant supply between the surfaces within the area of contact. The friction evolution was continuously recorded. The friction and surface damage behaviour is discussed.