Effect of surface finish on component performance

Many have discussed, evaluated, defined and contemplated the notion of surface technology for more than half a century and have drawn one outstanding conclusion: currently, no one has all the data to define accurately the functionality of a piece part surface to predict how it will perform and for how long. Surfaces are fabricated for specific applications with very specific intended performance characteristics. This paper will discuss these intended performance characteristics of the surface, powerful analysis tools that are able to discriminate the subtle differences between performing and non-performing surfaces, and how these tools can be used to develop specifications and process controls to produce consistent surface quality.