Laser microprecision treatment to raise EHD lubrication effects

Abstract

Laser microprecision treatment of the surfaces of mechanical parts takes place after machining, where the surfaces of mechanical parts, especially highly-loaded (counterformal) parts (e.g. gears, rolling bearing and cams with point or line contact) are re-treated microprecisely by laser to produce an asperity texture with transverse orientation. This man-made surface topography is favourable to EHD lubrication of parts in relative motion and greatly increases the load capacity of such parts. Timken tests of rings whose surfaces were treated microprecisely by laser demonstrate its ability to raise the Timken OK loads (or anti-scuffing capacity).