BEYOND SURFACES

Tribology: a young, interdisciplinary science Friction, and how to use or avoid it, has always been a focus of scientific endeavor. In the middle of the last century, this even developed into a separate branch of science that combines mechanical engineering, materials science, physics and chemistry in an interdisciplinary way: Tribology, whose name is derived from the ancient Greek tribein (to rub, to wear) and lógos (teaching, knowledge). The coatings lower the friction torque in water and gas as well as at high temperatures. › › Ball-joint steering assembly compo- nents are subject to severe corrosion and wear. Nevertheless, they must exhibit excellent friction and sliding properties. BALITHERM IONIT OX coat- ings offer improved surface hardness, wear and corrosion protection and are an environmentally friendly alternative to processes such as hard chrome plating and salt bath nitriding. › › Cutting tools coated with solutions from Oerlikon Balzers allow significantly higher processing speeds. This reduces machining time and costs and signifi- cantly extends tool life. The focus is not merely less friction, but rather targeted friction in the trans- mission components used in modern vehicles. Oerlikon Metco‘s Friction Systems unit manufactures high-­ performance synchronizer ring com- ponents and modules that are treated with carbon friction linings to provide excellent ease of shifting and a longer service life, They are compatible with all common transmission fluids. 33