The Triboconditioning® CG, or TCG Process for short, is a mechano/chemical surface treatment process that greatly improves the frictional characteristics of intermeshing metallic surfaces. The Triboconditioning® process combines controlled contact between the surface-to-be-treated and carrier materials with the addition of bespoke formulations of Triboconditioning® chemistry to achieve an improved operational interface, both mechanically and tribologically. The chemistries are specially formulated to chemically react and diffuse into the part surface creating an anti-friction/anti-wear nano layer while simultaneously improving surface topography. This results in surfaces with improved frictional coefficients and greater operational efficiencies that result from a reduction in heat and improved wear life.
The process of diffusing tribological constituents into the parent substrate, as compared to the standard coating processes to achieve performance advantages, presents a particularly interesting disruption to the mature hard coating applications industry. This allows engineers to achieve the desired surface modifications without causing unintended damage or risking part dimensions beyond spec. It is important to note that industry standard mechanical finishing equipment is utilized in this process, making this technology very competitive for both new and existing projects while still using current machine and processing technologies.
Benefits of Triboconditioning® vs. hard coating
No chipping of brittle exterior hard coatings which causes part failure/reduction in performance
Part tolerances remain constant because there is no growth of coating to the surface
Lower barrier of entry due to processing concerns with hard coating
Ability to use existing surface finishing equipment
Very effective for surfaces operating in poorly lubricated environments
Can be used in extremely high friction applications where hard coatings are ineffective
The key to a successful TCG program lies in the complete understanding of the current operational conditions, assessment of the improvement window, and current challenges, including: fuel economy, NVH, vibrations, wear, friction, thermal efficiency, micro pitting, and other operational variables. Overall, Triboconditioning® of complex geometries is a versatile technique that can be tailored to meet specific engineering requirements for a wide range of applications to help you reduce friction.