First Paper: An Investigation into the Steady-State Characteristics of Plain Slideways

Abstract

This paper describes steady-state friction tests on a scraped-cup ground combination of cast iron surfaces. The experimental conditions were representative of the operating conditions on a machine tool feed drive employing plain slideways. The range of the relative sliding velocity investigated was 0 → 1 in s-1, and the influence of lubricant viscosity of both polar and non-polar additive lubricants is shown. An investigation into the effect of oil grooves is also reported. Data obtained from squeeze film measurements enabled the characteristics, normal to the sliding plane, to be specified. These characteristics, together with measurements of the separation of the surfaces, enabled the steady-state friction characteristics to be predicted over the range of mixed and hydrodynamic lubrication covered by the tests. This work formed a basis for the investigation into the mechanism of the friction characteristics under dynamic conditions.