Effect of Size for Micro-Scale Dimples on Surface under Lubricated Sliding Contact

The current study investigated the effect of micro-dimple size on reduction friction to understand the potential of friction reduction through micro-scale dimple to fabricate by photolithography on pin-on-disk test using flat-on-flat contact geometry. It was verified that the friction property with respect to the same pitch influences the size of dimple under lubricated sliding contact. Additionally, it was recognized from Stribeck curve that the friction property has a connection with the size of dimple. This can explain the relationship between the friction coefficient and a dimensionless parameter for lubrication condition. The friction property has an effect on the size of surface texture on reduction friction, not only because of the density of dimple, but also because of the ratio of diameter/pitch. A ratio of approximately 0.5 is recommended under the tested friction condition. It is suggested that the ratio of d/p is an important parameter for surface texture design.