A novel dynamic friction experiment using a modified Kolsky bar apparatus

ABSTRACT--A novel dynamic friction experiment using the Kolsky bar concept was developed. The technique is com-plementary to the plate impact and other macroscopic friction experiments in the sense that sliding velocities and pressures not attainable otherwise can be investigated. The experimen-tal results reported in this article show that the technique pro-vides accurate and repeatable measurement of time-resolved friction. The apparatus is simpler and easier to operate than the plate impact facility. However, it cannot achieve the same level of contact pressure. Several material pairs have been investigated. In particular, the kinetic friction coefficient of Ti-6AI-4V sliding against WC/Co (cerrmet) and 4340 steel sliding against WC/Co were measured and compared with the val-ues reported by Prakash and Clifton in 1993. Atomic force microscopy is used to characterize the surface topography before and after the friction tests. KEY WORDS--Kolsky bar, dynamic friction, manufacturing, wea