Structuring of Metallic 3D Surfaces by the Etching Process: Microstructuring Reduces Friction Losses Between Curved Surfaces by Improving Tribological Properties

December 2005

Constantin Moisescu and Joachim Kieselbach, KIMO Engineering, Dillingen, Germany

This process, presented at the PCMI Conference in Atlanta in September 2005, describes a photochemical method used to create microstructures on curved metallic surfaces (for instance, on the inner walls of cylinder liners). Such structures act as oil-retaining depressions to reduce friction and improve the tribological properties of components involved in this process. Reduced friction offers advantages relative to oil and fuel consumption, reduced abrasion, and improved lifetime of parts.