Development of a High-Speed Two-Disc Tribometer for Evaluation of Traction and Scuffing of Lubricated Contacts

Abstract

This article describes the development of a high-speed, two-disc tribometer to conduct traction and scuffing tests emulating typical aerospace and automotive gear contacts. This tribometer is capable of achieving rolling velocities in excess of 50 m/s at sliding ratios and contact pressures representative of gear tooth contacts at elevated oil supply temperatures. A methodology to remove bearing drag from the traction torque measurements is presented as well as a noncontact surface temperature measurement system to quantify the surface bulk temperatures. Traction curve and scuffing test protocols representative of aerospace and automotive gear contact conditions are devised. Example traction curves and scuffing tests are presented to demonstrate the capabilities of the tribometer.