DESIGN AND TESTING OF PIN ON DISC TRIBOMETER: FINK-POD2025

Abstract

In the mechanical industry, friction is a significant parameter of mechanical systems as it greatly affects their service life, efficiency, and safety. Understanding friction force and their effects enables the optimization of materials, machine elements and systems, leading to improved performance and reduced energy losses. This paper describes the design and manufacturing of a tribometer named FINK-POD2025, an experimental device for measuring friction forces between different or same materials. A system has been designed in which friction is tested at the contact between the so-called disc and pin. The pin, with a diameter of 5 mm, and the rotating disc are interchangeable, allowing for testing various material combinations, while the entire system is designed for their easy replacement. The coefficient of friction is determined indirectly through the frictional force resulting from the rotational motion of the disk in contact with the pin. The paper also describes the measurement of the pressure exerted by the pin on the disc, followed by a calculation for determining the the coefficient of friction at the contact surface. To ensure the relevance of the experimental friction force determination, the system is balanced with a fixed joint on one side and a weight on the other. A lever mechanism is used to double the force acting on the pin compared to the applied weight. The paper describes the design, principle of operation, and manufacturing methods of the Pin on Disk type tribometer. The results of this testing are applicable in the design of testing devices for wide range of materials, as they can be used to enhance their characteristics