Understanding the role of surface textures in improving the performance of boundary additives, part II: Numerical simulations

Tribological performance of mating surfaces can be improved by developing surfaces with predefined textures and it is crucial to understand their role in modifying the performance and action of boundary lubrication additives. An isotropic texture T1, intermediate texture T2 and anisotropic texture, T3, were imported into our mixed simulation framework. It was found that T3 outperforms by providing the most feasible conditions for the activation of the lubricant additive, molybdenum dithiocarbamate (MoDTC) i.e. generating higher pressure peaks (shear), making more lubricant (reactant) available and providing greater load bearing area (greater reaction probability). Hence, facilitating the formation of functional boundary films. T2 seems to generate highest pressure peaks but its performance is worst due to its inability to sustain lubricant within the contact.