The frequency response of dynamic friction: A new view of sliding interfaces

Any attempt to predict friction-induced vibration, such as brake squeal in vehicle systems, requires as input some information about the dynamic friction force at the sliding interface. If the concern is only with the threshold of instability based on linearised theory, the quantity required is a type of frictional frequency response function over the range of possible unstable frequencies. This quantity has not previously been measured, and this paper reports the development and testing of a novel tribometer to measure it. Based on the concept of a pin-on-disc machine, controlled fluctuations in sliding speed are applied using an actuator and the resulting fluctuations in friction force are monitored in amplitude and phase. Sample results are shown, revealing parameter dependence, which is in some cases strikingly different from that of the mean friction force. The device has potential for providing necessary data on friction materials and also for discriminating between rival proposed theoretical models for dynamic friction.