An apparatus for quantitative fretting testing

Abstract

The design and construction of an apparatus for performing quantitative fretting fatigue experiments is described. The device allows accurate measurement and control of normal contact force, tangential contact force, relative displacement between contacting surfaces and bulk fretting loads, as well as measurement of average friction coefficients. Its design is simple, and includes interchangeable fretting contact pads, allowing the use of various pad geometries without major adjustment. The device incorporates many points of adjustment for alignment and compliance, making it a robust frame for a wide variety of fretting fatigue conditions involving different materials. The capabilities of this device are also verified by results of fretting fatigue experiments conducted on a 7075‐T6 aluminium alloy.