Our Competences

Discover how our multidisciplinary approach and state-of-the-art facilities enable us to deliver tailored solutions and breakthrough advancements in tribology.

Tribometrology

Measurement of friction, wear & lubrication

  • Our expertise includes characterising of tribosystems and interpreting data
  • Our methods range from model tests to component tests with different load collectives and environmental conditions
  • We develop customised test devices, such as tribometers, to measure friction, wear and lubrication behaviour
Infrastructure

Modelling & Simulation

Simulations for various tribological applications

  • We use specific software and a modern high-performance computer for modelling and simulation
  • Our services include multi-scale modelling and simulation of tribological processes and systems as well as the formulation and numerical implementation of mathematical models
  • We develop specific software for controlling experiments, recording measurement data and analysing data
Infrastructure

Surface & Material Characterisation

Detailed examination of surfaces & materials

  • We specialise in the analysis of materials and surfaces in order to determine tribologically relevant properties and understand their response to tribological loads
  • Our methods include mechanical and chemical analyses as well as the determination of the topography
  • Our services include materialography, failure analysis and the determination of wear mechanisms in highly loaded, corrosive or abrasive environments
  • We evaluate functional materials and develop friction-reducing coatings for improved service life and increased performance
Infrastructure

Lubricant Analysis & Artificial Ageing

Assessing lubricant performance & simulating aging processes

  • We specialise in the analysis of chemical and physical interactions between surfaces and lubricants and evaluate various parameters such as viscosity
  • Our methods include high-end analytics for investigations ranging from the macro to the nano level, including the artificial ageing of lubricants
  • Together with industry and science, we develop innovative methods tailored to specific applications
  • Our services include a wide range of chemical and physical analyses
Infrastructure

Sensor Development

Sensor technologies for diverse applications

  • We specialise in the development and construction of advanced sensor technologies for innovative measurements of tribological parameters
  • We develop new measurement methods and integrate the sensors and sensor systems into test setups and prototypes for validation in real applications
  • Our services include the development of customised sensors and devices for the precise measurement of friction, wear and lubricant behaviour
Infrastructure

Data Processing

Advanced data analysis & interpretation

  • We specialise in the processing, visualisation and analysis of large amounts of data from experiments and simulations
  • Our methods include modern data science techniques, including statistics, machine learning and artificial intelligence
  • We develop and implement algorithms that are tailored to comprehensive data analysis and ensure precise and insightful results from complex data sets
Infrastructure

Biotribology

Investigation of friction, wear & lubrication in biological systems

  • Research in this area aims to optimise implant materials and designs that improve joint movement and prevent complications
  • Using special tribometers, we simulate physiological loads, movements and sliding speeds in combination with artificial synovial fluid and body temperature
  • We evaluate different material combinations such as CoCrMo alloys, polymers (hydrogels) and ceramics, including living tissue such as bovine cartilage
  • Our focus is on understanding the complex interactions between these materials and the biological environment, aiming to maximize biocompatibility and longevity
Infrastructure