Materials & Interface Mechanics Laboratory

Undergraduate Research | Texas Tech University

Project Overview

Investigating the effects of surface charge, lubricants, and electrical currents on steel specimen wear and friction behavior for turbomachinery applications in extreme environments.

Procedure

Turn AISI 52100 rods to Ø20 mm on CNC lathe.
Cut pucks to 5 mm thickness via wire EDM.
Wet-polish specimens on the polisher to mirror finish.
Apply lubricant & electrical potential, then run 30 min sliding tests on RFW160 tribometer.
Capture real-time friction coefficient and wear data.
Analyze post-test surfaces on the Bruker ContourGT optical profiler.

Experimental Setup & Sample Prep

Samples were fabricated, polished, and then tested under controlled lubrication and electrical conditions.

Machines & Equipment

Polisher

CNC Lathe

Wire EDM

RFW160 Tribometer

Bruker ContourGT Profiler

Results & Analysis

Surface charge application reduced average friction by ~15%, while certain additives improved wear resistance. Nanoscratch profiles revealed depth variations corresponding to lubricant chemistry.

Contact & References

Questions or collaboration inquiries?
Email Justin Port at Justinport.me@gmail.com

Back to Home Back to Top