Computational Methods for Detection of Microgeometry Changes in Tribological Surfaces

In the modelling and characterization of changes undergone by engineering surfaces from tribological processes, an automatic detection system is often required to minimize subjective elements of the assessment in the analysis. Microgeometry changes in tribological surfaces are indentations, scratches, micro-pits, micro-smearing marks and mild wear. The current paper presents some effective methods to detect depressions on machined surfaces (e.g. indentations, scratches and micropitting) and also mild wear (small changes in the actual surface topography). The theoretical background of the methods is discussed and application examples are illustrated. With this, it is expected that the reader can easily develop computer programs to implement the methods described here.