Optimization of Surface Texturing for Contact Between Steel and Ultrahigh Molecular Weight Polyethylene Under Boundary Lubrication

In this study, we developed a design method for surface texturing optimization and evaluated it experimentally. Square patterns composed of different fractions of pore shapes were prepared by using a nanosecond pulse laser on AISI 1045 steel surfaces. A pore diameter of 75 μm was used to design the area densities. The area density was 5–25 %, and the pore depth was 20–75 μm. Different area densities and pore depths were examined for optimization, and pin-on-disk sliding tests were performed using ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene pins. The results showed that all of the coefficients of friction of the textured specimens were reduced regardless of the area density and aspect ratio. Optimization was performed according to the measured dimensions of the pores, and the optimized area density and pore depth under the current sliding conditions were found to be 25 % and 25 μm, respectively.