The polymeric gaskets are essential components in almost all mechanical industrial processes that allow the containment and effective movement of liquids and gases in extreme environments. The friction is intrinsically related to the behavior of the seal. High friction accelerates the wear of the seal, which can lead to cause leakage and/or premature failure of the component, and increase the energy consumption of industrial processes.
The technique of (micro-) texturing is a technique applied to surfaces for the friction reduction in lubricated rigid materials, such as by example metallic or ceramic materials. Recently, this technique has been has been applied to polymeric and elastomeric materials at the laboratory level, and its efficiency has been demonstrated.
The project will develop and will demonstrate a novel methodology for the design and fabrication of large volumes of polymeric components with surfaces textured, which will be designed in function of the conditions of operation of each particular component. With the resulting design, the you will achieve a >20% friction reduction for an extra cost <10%.
This innovative methodology combines:
The project will establish three lines of demonstration of the methodology applied to: 1) the design and manufacture of molds, and to the design and production of 2) rotary joints for use in engines, and 3) joints with alternative motion for industrial processes.
Horizon 2020. Research and Innovation Framework Programme. Call FoF-06-2017: New product functionalities through advanced surface manufacturing processes for mass production.
“This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 768705”.
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