Abstract

Any machine parts, tools construction components and workpieces do interact via their surfaces with each other respectively with their environments. Depending on the application field and the task, the interaction occurs on the basis of mechanisms that can be of mechanical, chemical, electrical or optical nature or of several of these. In any case, the property of the surfaces is an essential feature with respect to the functionality of the particular element. In general, the requirements are met by materials that are not necessarily, at the same time well-suited for the piece in its entirety, be it for reasons of design, processing technologies, costs or others. Against this background, modern production approaches rely on a great variety of adequate and well developed surface technologies.

© 1998 IEEE