Asymmetric Height Distribution of Surfaces Machined by Hard Turning and Grinding

The asymmetric height distribution of a machined surface can be useful from a tribological point of view in several cases. The purpose of this study is to analyze this asymmetry based on the 3D surface texture parameter skewness, providing technological parameter values that help in achieving favorable surfaces. A 16MnCr5 case-hardened steel (62-63 HRC) was machined by hard turning and grinding based on a comprehensive design of experiments and the topography of the surfaces was measured and analyzed. The texture parameter that informs about the height distribution of the surface points (skewness, Ssk) was compared to the volume parameters peak material volume (Vmp) and valley void volume (Vvv). The main finding is that negative Ssk values are found at low Vmp and Vvv values, which confirms the favorable tribological properties.

Automated summary

This study analyzes the asymmetric height distribution of a machined surface and provides technological parameter values that help achieve favorable surfaces. The findings show that negative skewness values are associated with low peak material volume and valley void volume, indicating favorable tribological properties.