Features

On the surface - preparation of rare earth metals

Dr Steve Barrett from the University of Liverpool, UK, has been studying rare earth metals for 20 years. Here he explains how preparation of the surface layer is crucial to the functionality of these scarce elements.

Materials World Magazine, 01 Jan 2012

Playing hardball - improving steel alloy bearings

A new heat treatment process is improving reliability of steel alloy bearings. Phil Burge, from SKF bearings, explains how.

Materials World Magazine, 04 Dec 2011

Measurement Good Practice guide - An introduction to the mechanical testing of coatings

This Good Practice Guide authored by Dr. Mark Gee and Dr. Nigel Jennett (NPL) is an introduction to the mechanical testing of coatings.

Coatings and surface treatments, 03 Nov 2011

Measurement Good Practice Guide - General approach and procedures for unlibricated sliding wear tests

This article by Dr. M.Gee (NPL) and Dr.M.J.Neale (Neale Consulting Engineers) aims to provide introductory guidance on unlubricated sliding wear testing.

Coatings and surface treatments, 03 Nov 2011

Measurement and Good Practice Guide - Wear and Friction of Coatings

This good practice guide authored by Dr. Mark Gee (NPL) gives advice on how to plan and carry out wear and friction testing for coated materials.

Coatings and surface treatments, 03 Nov 2011

Engineered coatings for composites and polymers used in defence and aerospace: now and future

The use of composites in aerospace and defence applications is increasing at a fast rate.

Surface engineering, 02 Sep 2011

Metal finishing with ionic liquids: scale-up and pilot plants from IONMET consortium

The authors describe the successful scale-up of five ionic liquid processes by the IONMET consortium.

Surface engineering, 02 Sep 2011

Characterisation and anlalysis of surface engineered thin films

Surface engineered thin films have a great commercial importance in a wide range of applications including precision engineering, data storage, microelectronics, automotive and many others.

Surface engineering, 01 Sep 2011

Ecological prepaint treatment of aluminium alloys

The preparation of aluminium alloys before painting is fundamental to achieving good coating adhesion and superior corrosion resistance.

Surface engineering, 01 Sep 2011

Accuracy Counts

This paper from NPL discusses the importance of developing test methods for surface engineering that reproduce as closely as possible the actual conditions seen in service. The paper also discusses issues of trade-off between testing simplicity and replicating serives conditions and methods of establishing confidence in the test process and the data produced. The paper then goes on to outline the support services available to the surface engineer and briefly lists some standards and standards committees for surface engineering tests.

Surface engineering, 01 Sep 2011