Title: Effect of finishing methods on surface characteristics and performance of precision components in rolling/sliding contact

Authors: F. Hashimoto, S.N. Melkote, R. Singh, R. Kalil

Addresses: The Timken Company, Canton, OH, USA. ' George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA. ' George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA. ' George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA

Abstract: Functional performance of precision mechanical components such as bearings is known to depend on their surface characteristics, which result from the finishing method used. However, a detailed study of the impact of modern finishing methods on surface integrity, and tribological and mechanical performance is needed to fully understand the complex relationship for bearing steel surfaces prepared using the following methods: Grinding (GD), Honing (HN), Hard Turning (HT) and Isotropic Finishing (IF). This paper presents the results of an experimental study aimed at understanding the complex relationship of these finished surfaces subjected to rolling–sliding lubricated contact. The resulting Three-Dimensional (3D) texture and residual stresses, and their influence on rolling/sliding friction, torque, temperature and bearing life are evaluated. Specific surface features are identified to explain the observed trends.

Keywords: surface finish; friction; bearing life; surface integrity; performance; precision components; rolling-sliding contact; bearings; bearing steel surfaces; grinding; honing; hard turning; isotropic finishing; texture; residual stresses; torque; temperature.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMMM.2009.026923

International Journal of Machining and Machinability of Materials, 2009 Vol.6 No.1/2, pp.3 - 15

Published online: 09 Jul 2009 *

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