Advanced wear analysis of oscillating plastic components

The aim of this thesis is the characterization between experimental tests of wear factor of a plastic component for automotive applications. Wear factor is an important parameter to define the performance of friction components in terms of wear resistance in particular condition of pressure, velocity and temperature which define operative conditions of tensioners for Front End Accessories Drive (FEAD). This thesis work is the result of an Intense experimental activity in Dayco plant of Ivrea and represents an innovation from plastic characterization point of view, because tests have been carried out considering an oscillatory movement between the friction component and the counterpart, while literature data are always referred to "pin on disk" tests that is a rotational application. Based on the experimental data, a model was developed to provide an equation of wear factor as a function of pressure, velocity, and temperature. The above-mentioned equation represents an improvement of the life predictive tool currently used in Dayco. This tool is a valid support in the design phase of the tensioner because it allows to establish if the component can satisfy project specifications in terms of durability requested by customers. Moreover, it allows to check and improve already existing systems, and to avoid over-engineering of the workpiece with economic savings in the production phase.