tribological expertise

Our team consists of experts with several years of experience in the field of contact mechanics. We have access to state-of-the-art analysis tools that provide us with detailed insights into the characteristics of your samples. This allows us to understand the underlying mechanisms within the system.

Optical microscopy

Optical Microscope image of a bearing roller's side in a self-aligning aeronautical bearing: observation of a preferential load area.

Optical Microscopic Analyses

Digital optical microscopy is a fast, accurate tool for analyzing surfaces before and after testing. It can be used to observe, among other things:

The surface finish and cleanliness,
The type of wear involved,
The dimensions of wear particles,
The presence of oxide layers.”

Scanning Electron Microscopy

Scanning Electron Microscope image of lithium fibers in industrial grease. The oil in the soap has been removed using an in-house developed process that preserves the soap's structure.

Scanning Electron Microscope analyses

For work at a very fine scale and in-depth analysis of surface elements in a sample, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) is the appropriate tool. Thanks to the micrometer-scale dimensions of the analysis area, it allows us to highlight:

The presence of foreign bodies: contaminants, oxides, wear,
The elemental composition of these bodies,
Local alterations in surface topology,
The presence of delamination and cracks,
The structure of the thickener in a metallic grease.

SEM provides high resolution and precise details for in-depth analysis of surfaces and interfaces.

Profilometer measurements

Using the 3D Optical Profilometer-Roughness Tester for non-contact measurement of the surface conditions of the teeth of a gear wheel.

Profilometer measurements

To evaluate surface appearance or feed numerical models, profilometric measurements are ideal. It is possible to:

Examine components at various stages of their lifecycle,
Inspect samples before and after testing (roughness, machining defects, operational asymmetry),
Characterize wear marks for modeling.

Rheology Measurements

Example of a study on the rheological behavior of a material at very low temperatures.

Rheology measurements

Rheological measurements allow us to understand and analyze the viscoelastic properties and mechanical response of materials (oils, greases, silicones, etc.). These are essential data for the development and optimization of lubricated contacts. It is possible to:

Characterize the flow of a material at different temperatures,
Monitor the degradation of a lubricant.