Lipophilic and friction properties of 20CrMnTi steel with laser-induced texturing.

Laser surface texturing is an effective method to enhance gear lubrication by improving lipophilic properties, thereby increasing transmission performance and longevity. This study investigated the effects of laser parameters on lipophilicity using a grid texture and found that a scanning speed of 100 mm/s maximized diffusion and climbing. The textured specimens showed higher wetting hysteresis and adsorption, forming a thicker oil film for better lubrication. Wear tests indicated that the textured specimen had reduced friction, wear quality, and depth by 49.2% and 66.34% compared to unprocessed specimens. Gear efficiency is effectively increased, and gear oil temperature is significantly reduced. This research offers insights into lipophilic characterization and gear lubrication enhancement, potentially decreasing surface failures like pitting, adhesion, and wear. • A method for characterizing the lipophilicity of material surfaces is proposed. • Maximum wettability and adsorption force increased by 49.2% and 66.34% over US. • Minimum wear quality and depth decreased by 29.65% and 45.33% compared to US. • Textured gears increase efficiency > 3.67%, reduce oil temp > 7.45% vs. untextured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]