Optimization of Tribological Characteristics of a Combined Pattern Textured Surface Using Taguchi Design

Abstract

Laser surface modification of contact surfaces, which can generate arranged channels or micro-dimples, is an important factor that dictates several improvements in tribological performance, including lubrication lifetime, wear resistance, load-carrying capacity, and reduced friction coefficients. Patterns of combined textures having circular and sine wave shapes were created using an Nd:YAG laser. Pin-on-disk tribometer tests under oil lubrication were conducted over a range of test conditions. Moreover, an L9(34) orthogonal array experimental design was employed to determine the influence of parameters such as the area density, applied load, and sliding speed on the tribological characteristics. The results indicate that the combined textures effectively reduced the coefficient of friction compared with that of a polished surface. Among the investigated patterns, the texture with a 100-μm-groove-width pattern exhibited the lowest friction coefficient and wear rate. Analysis of variance suggested that the dimple density is the most important parameter influencing the friction coefficient at a confidence level of 95%.