Multi-Function Tribometer Design

Abstract

Friction and wear properties of many material combinations are becoming increasingly important as engineers look to create more durable and reduced-friction materials. Currently, there is no tribometer which can measure real world complex 2D wear patterns at speeds required by our sponsor. Because of this, our team has been asked to design a tribometer which will measure friction and wear in complex two-dimensional wear patterns to better model and test real world applications. Key design characteristics will include both closed-loop environmental control and closed-loop normal force application. A successful prototype must have each of the aforementioned functionalities among others.