Rolling bearings of all sizes are critical machine elements whose reliable operation directly affects the performance, service life, and safety of entire machines and systems. It is therefore essential to evaluate the performance of lubricants under conditions that closely replicate actual operating environments. For this purpose, a wide range of standardized and customer-specific tests is available. Among the most established are the FE8 test (DIN 51819) and the FE9 test (DIN 51821).
Despite the complexity and cost of these tests, the number of recorded parameters is often limited. For example, the FE8 test typically measures only torque over time (including the average friction torque during run-in and steady-state operation), mass wear, and possibly the time to failure. This limited data acquisition makes it difficult to gain deeper scientific insights that could drive targeted lubricant or system development.
Modern, application-oriented tribometry — also referred to as “Tribometry 4.0” — aims to overcome these limitations through the use of advanced sensor technologies, intelligent test protocols, and comprehensive data analysis including AI. Our high-frequency impedance measurement provides valuable information about surface conditions and the lubricant film in both mixed and (elasto-)hydrodynamic lubrication regimes.
In various applications, it has been demonstrated that valuable insights for lubricant development can be obtained:
- Stribeck curve in real applications: Transitions from boundary lubrication to mixed lubrication and to hydrodynamic lubrication.
- Development of micropitting: From the first crack to particle detachment.
- Formation of surface layers: Reaction layers or deposits.
- Oil aging process: Particle formation and contamination.
Equipping your bearing test rigs and tribometers with our sensor technology enables you to gain deep scientific insights into tribological processes and changes in lubrication.
