Advanced characterization of counter surfaces in linear applications

Counter surfaces are an important aspect for every sealing application and have a direct influence on the sealing performance of the system. Historically, the counter surface is described with multiple roughness parameters based on 2D profile or 3D topography measurements. In addition to the standard parameters, light scattering can be used to describe the counter sur-face. Compared to the common profile roughness parameters, light scattering measures the angle distribution of a profile and is therefore more robust against external influences. In addition, light scattering measurements are faster at characterizing a complete running surface. In this study, the effect of one rod seal geometry made from PTFE and PU materials on the sur-face characteristics of the rod is investigated. A deeper understanding of the tribological system is achieved by analyzing for the first time the light scattering roughness parameters of a tested rod surface in addition to the standard profile roughness parameters.