Measurements of friction-induced surface strains in a steel/polymer contact

The paper describes an experimental study combined with analyses and numerical simulations of the surface strains developed in a metal–polymer contact under a variety of loading configurations. Specifically, a steel ball is caused to slide over a poly(methylmethacrylate) flat counterface under a fixed normal load where the imposed motions are small and consist of sliding and rotation and the combination of both. The surface strains have been measured directly using conventional strain gauges in two types of configurations specifically designed to monitor the strains for sliding and rotation. Calculations of frictional forces provide friction coefficients which are self-consistent and the computed ‘friction displacement loops’ correspond closely to those measured. In addition, the surface strain measurements provide a convenient and accurate insight into the stick–slip transitions in fretting contacts.