NANOVEA's blog

Irvine, Calif., Oct 24, 2013 – Nanovea demonstrates for the first time the ability to measure a continuous Stribeck Curve. Using the Nanovea Tribometer advanced speed control, from 2000 to 0.01 rpm, within 10 minutes software monitoring provides a complete Stribeck Curve. Prior to this advancement a Stribeck Curve has been shown to be evaluated in a stepwise fashion requiring data stitching. This advancement provides precise data throughout lubricant regime evaluation and substantially reduces time and cost.

The ability to accurately measure mechanical properties, using Nanoindentation, in the fields of Life Science has recently become an important aspect of many current studies. In some cases, understanding the mechanical properties of soft biological surfaces have helped uncover the mechanical effects of diseases. Understanding mechanical properties provides a context for identifying the local mechanical behavior linked to specific changes. It is also critical in the development of artificial bio-materials.

In profilometer studies where the interface of surface features, patterns, shapes etc., are being evaluated for orientation, it will be useful to quickly identify areas of interest over the entire profile of measurement. By segmenting a surface into significant areas the user can quickly evaluate boundaries, peaks, pits, areas, volumes and many others to understand their functional role in the entire surface profile under study.

Traditional Puncture Tests are typically used to determine the penetration characteristics of a wide range of protective material such as films, foils or membrane. It is widely used in food and medical industries on applications ranging from food packaging to rubber gloves and needles. The test is preformed like that of a compressive test. A probe, with multiple tip selection, uses increasing load until material is penetrated and load is recorded at failure.

Some thoughts on what to consider when reviewing the two white light techniques: http://www.nanovea.com/News/Newsletter/Apr12.html

Oxidation resistance is critical for metal components in high temperature environments. Exposure to high temperatures can result in the depletion of the metal with rapid oxidation and material loss. Without protective coatings, surface oxidation adversely affects the performance and durability of the metal component. For example, engine parts, turbine blades, tooling and many others. It will be critical to measure with profilometer the protective coating chosen for a given application.