Friction, wear and surface damage mechanisms of pneumatic clutch actuators

Wear and surface degradation mechanisms of a pneumatic clutch actuator have been studied. The applied test method simulates the sliding contact of an anodised aluminium surface against a rubber lip seal and a PTFE guiding ring. The influences of contact load, temperature and particle contamination on wear mechanisms and friction were investigated. A controlled amount of lubrication was applied; both pure silicone grease and silicone grease mixed with standard dust particles were used.