Multi-Function Tribometers
MFT-5000 Multi-Function Tribometer
The MFT-5000 Multi-Function Tribometer is a universal tribometer and friction wear testing machine that combines modular tribology testing with a patented in-line 3D profilometer — covering loads from nano-Newtons to 10,000 N and temperatures from −120°C to 1200°C on a single platform.
KEY FEATURES
Tribology Synchronized Inline 3D Surface Measurement
The in-line integrated 3D profilometer captures surface topography with nanometer resolution between test cycles. The Lambda imaging head combines white light interferometry, confocal microscopy, dark field, and bright field imaging on a single profiler head — measuring transparent, rough, smooth, and steeply sloped surfaces with ease.
Multi-Range Load Capability: Nano, Micro & Macro
The MFT-5000 offers an exceptionally wide load range from nano to macro scales using interchangeable load cells. Automatic load cell detection and fast exchange allow users to switch quickly between ranges, enabling precise and reliable tribology testing for everything from delicate coatings to robust engineering materials and lubricants.
Environmental Chambers
The MFT-5000 supports tribology testing from −120°C to 1200°C using modular environmental chambers. Available configurations include high-temperature, cryogenic, humidity, corrosion, salt spray, hydrogen charging, inert gas, and SRV chamber setups — enabling real-world condition simulation for automotive, aerospace, and energy applications.
Interchangeable Modular Drives for Flexible Test Configurations
The MFT-5000 features a highly adaptable, modular drive system designed for rapid configuration changes across a wide range of tribology tests. Each module mounts directly onto the precision platform and integrates seamlessly with the upper load frame, enabling researchers to simulate diverse, real-world application environments with ease. This modularity ensures the system remains flexible enough to evolve alongside your most demanding testing requirements.
From Lubricants, Coatings to Surfaces: Tribology Testing for Any Material
The MFT-5000 is designed for tribology studies across a wide range of materials—from liquids such as lubricants, biofluids, and water to solids including metals, ceramics, hard coatings, and ultra-hard materials such as diamond. As a result, it supports both fundamental research and industrial development across diverse material systems.
Multi-Axis Load Cell Technology for Precise Force Measurement - Piezo, Capacitive
Patented capacitive and piezo load cells deliver high stability and resolution across the full load range. Sensor configurations support force measurement in 1, 2, or 6 axes. Dynamic torque sensors measure in-line torque during rotating tests, enabling accurate characterization of complex tribological interactions.
More about
The Multi Function Tribometer is an advanced instrument designed to evaluate the friction, wear, and lubrication properties of various materials. Notably, Multi Function Tribometer setups are crucial for modern tribology labs.
Patented In-Line 3D Optical Profilometer
Wear volume, roughness change, crack initiation, and debris accumulation — all tracked automatically as the test runs. Furthermore, the patented Lambda head integrates four optical techniques on one sensor, therefore measuring transparent films, rough metals, and steep slopes without lens changes. As a result, you get a time-synchronized record of surface evolution and friction. Additionally, the Sigma head offers a dedicated white light interferometry option.
EV Tribology and Electrochemical Impedance
The MFT-5000 integrates potentiostat or AC/DC power sources to deliver currents from microamperes to several amperes during tribology testing. Furthermore, electrochemical impedance measurements identify lubrication regime boundaries and electrical contact behavior as conditions shift from ohmic to capacitive. This capability is therefore critical for EV lubricants, bearings, and drivetrain component qualification. In this application space, Multi Function Tribometer solutions prove indispensable.
Modular Drive System
Several interchangeable drives mount on the MFT-5000’s precision XY stage with auto recognition. A few common ones are listed below. Of course, Multi Function Tribometer modularity ensures compatibility with many industry standards.
- Rotary: 0.001–10,000 RPM — pin-on-disk, ASTM G99
- Linear reciprocating: up to 80 Hz — ASTM G133, HFRR
- Fretting voice coil: 10 µm–2.8 mm, up to 300 Hz
- Traction : 0–200 N/3000N, ±6 m/s — EHD film thickness
- Block-on-ring: Timken, OK load, ASTM G77
- Upper rotation: four-ball EP and wear, thrust washer, KRL, ASTM D2266, D2596
Unmatched Load Cell Technology Capacitive, Piezo
The MFT-5000 features a wide range of patented, easily interchangeable load cells — extending from nN to 10,000 N — to provide unparalleled stability and resolution across all test scales. Furthermore, these sensors are available in various configurations, including 1, 2, or 6-axis force measurement, in order to suit diverse experimental needs. For laboratory research and industrial development, Multi Function Tribometer designs set new standards for performance and reliability.
Key sensor technologies include:
Capacitive Load Cells: Offer the highest resolution with a rigid design for maximum precision.
Dynamic Torque Sensors: Engineered for accurate in-line torque measurement during rotating motions.
Piezo Load Cells: Provide the highest resolution coupled with high-frequency response capabilities.
| Load Range | nN to 10'000 N |
|---|---|
| Temperature Range | -120°C to 1200°C |
| Humidity Control | 5% – 95% RH |
| Available Modules | Rotary (0.001–10'000 rpm); Linear Reciprocating (up to 80 Hz); Block on Ring; Mini Traction; Fretting |
| Integrated Sensors | Capacitive, piezo, strain gauge load cells; acoustic emission; electrical contact resistance |
| Integrated Profilometer | In-line 3D optical profilometer (Confocal, Interferometer, Dark Field, Bright Field) |
| XY Stage | Long-stroke, closed-loop XY stage for custom motions and stitching |
