TRIBOLOGY
Mini Traction Machine (MTM2)
The MTM is a flexible general purpose instrument for measuring the frictional properties of lubricated and unlubricated contacts under a wide range of rolling and sliding conditions up to 3.1 GPa contact pressures and up to 75 N load.
Principle
The specimens, a steel ball and steel disc, are fitted to the instrument and a small sample of lubricant is added to the pot. The ball is loaded against the face of the disc, and the ball and disc are driven independently to create a mixed rolling/sliding contact. The frictional force between the two specimen is measured and recorded automatically throughout the test.
FEATURES
Compact bench top and fully automated
Independently driven specimen enable a wide range of contact conditions to be replicated across all three lubrication regimes
Unique configuration eliminates induced spin in the contact improving accuracy of test results
A wide range of specimen geometries and materials available
3D-SPACER LAYER IMAGING (3D-SLIM)
3D spacer layer imaging (3D-SLIM) is an optional accessory which when mounted on MTM can enable to measure sub-micron additive films on the specimens as they form during the test. 3D-SLIM uses the principle of optical interferometry.
The upper specimen is loaded against the disc and run under preset conditions for a fixed duration. Periodically throughout the test, the ball is stopped, loaded in reverse against a glass window and a film thickness map of the complete contact area is captured.
APPLICATION OF MTM
Fuel economy modelling
Industrial lubricant screening
Railway grease development
Reduction of wear in artificial joints
Optimization of mouth and skin feel
Green Tribology Research