E!115140, Effigears, Applied Nano Surfaces Sweden AB

Important results from the project

Triboconditioning® CG (TCG) is a flexible surface treatment method, which can be implemented in different machine platforms. During the Effigears project the TCG process for treatment of gears has developed from a small-scale process to production-like environment using streamfinishing machines. During the project, gears and other parts have been treated with TCG, and tests have shown positive results concerning both efficiency and durability.

Expected long term effects

In rig testing, TCG treated gears has shown improved efficiency compared to ground gears. The effect is larger at higher speeds, which is a positive trend considering the use in EV transmissions. Using streamfinishing machines for TCG treatment is very advantageous. The unique combination of modified surface structure and surface chemistry can be achieved in one process with relatively short cycle time, and good opportunities for automation, making it suitable for high production volumes.

Approach and implementation

Following core development at Tribonex, the TCG process has been transferred to Otec and implemented in streamfinishing platform. A measurement setup for spur gears has been developed. Using Optosurf’s technique based on scattered light, gears can be measured with a robust method directly in production environment. FZG tests have been carried out at KTH, and simulations of gear performance have been performed by Lund University, which showed good correlations to the rig testing.