Improved Process for Laser-Assisted, In Situ, Multi-Stage Wear Measurement of Simultaneously Wearing Counterparts
Accurate in situ wear measurements of polymer-polymer wear combinations using techniques like ball-on-prism tribometers pose a significant challenge. Simultaneous wear of both counterparts complicates obtaining continuous wear data without interrupting experiments to perform slow, intermediate measurements. Building on Harden et al. (Tribol Lett 71(3):1–14, 2023), this work develops an accurate, low-noise measurement approach to enable reliable in situ measurements. The method employs a laser line scanner and a precision linear axis for accurate positioning within the test stand, complemented by an algorithm for debris detection and data smoothing to minimize noise from wear residue. This approach achieves up to a 98% reduction in peak-to-peak noise levels, enabling high-resolution measurements and supporting parallel experiments with various polymer-polymer wear combinations. Unlike existing non-in situ methods, this technique offers efficient and accurate in situ wear measurements, advancing tribological research and polymer material testing.
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