Overview
The MTM2 is the latest evolution of the successful MTM instrument which to date has sold over 50 systems worldwide. It is a flexible general purpose instrument for measuring the frictional properties of lubricated and unlubricated contacts under a wide range of rolling and sliding conditions. One of the main applications is the fully automated traction mapping of lubricants under conditions commonly found in internal combustion engines.
Additional features allow the measurement of anti-wear additive film growth on test specimens, investigation of soft contacts, reciprocating friction and wear measurements.
Principle
In the standard configuration the test specimens are a 19.05mm (3/4 inch) steel ball and a 46 mm diameter steel disc. The ball is loaded against the face of the disc and the ball and disc are driven independently to create a mixed rolling/sliding contact. The frictional force between the ball and disc is measured by a force transducer. Additional sensors measure the applied load, the lubricant temperature and (optionally) the electrical contact resistance between the specimens and the relative wear between them.
Automated testing
The control software runs on a standard PC and allows the user to easily define a test profile containing a sequence of temperatures, loads and speeds.
The selected profile steps the instrument through the test sequence, recording data as required, without any intervention by the user. The design parameters of the instrument have been carefully chosen so that high contact pressures, temperatures and speeds can be attained within a safe, easy to use laboratory bench top system.
Schematic of MTM2
Traction and Stribeck Data
Below are screen shots from two traction and two stribeck tests performed on the new MTM2 for a fully synthetic 0W-40 and a mineral based 20W-50 engine oils. Test conditions: Load, 37N (1GPa contact pressure), Speed 0-2m/s, slide/roll/ratio (SRR) 0-50%, Temperature, 40, 60, 80, 100, 120°C.
Stribeck 0w-40
Stribeck 20w-50
Traction 0w-40
Traction 20w-50
MTM2 Options
3D Spacer Layer Imaging Method (SLIM)
3D Spacer Layer Imaging Method (SLIM) enables the instrument to measure additive film formation on the test ball during the course of a test. This option is of great benefit to users who are designing and developing lubricants and additive packages. Read more...
Electrical Contact Resistance (ECR)
Electrical Contact Resistance (ECR) gives an indication of film thickness between the two specimens. Read more...
Reciprocating option
Reciprocating option enables the disc to be driven with a sinusoidal motion, further expanding the range of contact conditions which can be created. Read more...
