Case study: an accurate, fast, and easy-to-use tool to investigate a novel laser surface texturing method

Have a look at this case study: "Reducing Friction for Efficient Motion of Sliding Surfaces by Laser Surface Texturing".

Here below we summarize the main topics of this interesting article.

The problem: "Energy losses due to friction and wear of sliding surfaces and other tribological contacts account for 23 % of the world's energy consumption. This figure justifies the need for technologies capable of mitigating friction and wear."

The solution: "[...] a novel laser surface texturing method based on a cost-effective sub-nanosecond (ns) near-infrared (NIR) fiber laser source. This laser-based method shows friction reduction and increased wear resistance, which in turn results in greater component efficiency and longer service life (e.g., pistons)."

The technology: "[...] optical metrology techniques such as Confocal, Interferometry, and Focus Variation enable the evaluation and study of new laser micromachining routines with much greater speed and sufficient resolution"

The tool: "[...] each optical technique is only suitable under certain situations. This is one of the main reasons why the 3D optical profilometer S lynx was chosen to carry out this work. This feature allows for quickly evaluating all kinds of surfaces."

S lynx is a non-contact 3D surface profiler designed for use in industry and research. It has been designed as a compact and versatile system. S lynx is able to measure differing textures, structures, roughness and waviness, all across varying surface scales. The S lynx's versatility makes it appropriate for a broad range of high-end surface measurement applications. Ideal performance is guaranteed by Sensofar's proprietary 3-in-1 measurement technology, and complemented by the incredibly intuitive operation of the system with the associated SensoSCAN software.