Damage of surface films based on electrical contact resistance

In order to investigate the formation and damage of surface films, electrical contact resistance (ECR) method was used to monitor the formation of surface films in reciprocating lubricated cylinder bore/piston ring pairs. A methodology, which can indicate the status of surface films under reciprocating sliding, was proposed for ECR signals. The process of damage and heal resulted by abrasion particle was observed successfully. The investigations show that the status of surface films changes largely under step-loading. The formation and removal of surface films coexist in a competitive dynamic process. ECR method can provide real-time information about the formation of surface films.