Modification of SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) for In-Situ, Liquid-Lubricated Sliding Studies

摘要

Modifications to an existing scanning electron microscope (SEM) are described which allow wear experiments to be performed inside the SEM chamber with a low vapor hydrocarbon oil as the lubricant. Continuous video tape records and photomicrographs at magnifications up to 6000 X were made for several preliminary sliding experiments of steel vs. steel with an in situ pin on cylinder test apparatus. The contact areas of steel sliding surfaces could be imaged through the lubricant film allowing observation of the deformation process as well as lubricant flow behaviour. Continuous monitoring of the coefficient of friction allowed correlations to be drawn between friction data and cylinder surface topography. Comparisons in friction and wear were also made between dry and lubricated contacts. Keywords: Modification of scanning electron microscope, Lubricated experiments in scanning electron microscope.