Research Progress on the Design of Surface Texture in Tribological Applications: A Mini-Review

Abstract

Surface texturing technology, as an advanced method to improve surface tribological properties of friction pairs, has been widely used in many fields. In this work, the influence of surface texture parameters on tribological properties of friction pair surfaces are reviewed. For the currently most developed surface textures with symmetry and simple geometries and distributions, it is found that they could help reduce friction mainly by enhancing their dynamic pressure lubrication capability, storing abrasive debris and lubricants for dynamic lubrication or promoting the formation of friction films on surfaces of friction pairs. The dominant design parameters of surface textures influencing their tribological performance are found to be shape, geometry and density, while working condition, including contact mode and lubrication situation, also has a significant influence on the performance of surface textures with specific features. Asymmetric textures and multi-scale composite textures also show great tribological performance, while the coupling mechanism across different factors is still unclear, which makes it a challenge to maximize the advantage of asymmetric or multi-scale composite textures. The development of machine learning provides promising approaches for the multi-parameter optimization of surface textures, which is expected to promote and accelerate the design of advanced surface textures.