Author(s)

L. Blunt, X. Jiang & K.J. Stout

Abstract

Over the past eight years the subject of 3D surface metrology has developed from something of a novelty to a position where it has now become a crucial tool in the characterisation of engineering surfaces across a broad range of applications. It is widely accepted that the nature of the topography of a surface has a significant influence on the efficiency and functional performance of the surface. The functions that have been identified in various studies include wear, friction, lubrication, corrosion, fatigue, coating, paintability, etc. It is also increasingly being recognised that in order to fully study and control surface manufacture to enhance the above applications, studies need to be carried out from a 3-D perspective. Until recently however, the vast majority of research, industrial applications and national and international roughness standards were b

Keywords