5. Surface finishes

5.1 Introduction

Historically, the mechanical functions of parts (sliding contact, static sealing, etc.) have been characterized and correlated using two-dimensional roughness and/or waviness parameters calculated on surface profiles.

Developments in measuring instrument technology and associated software are opening the way to a three-dimensional approach to surfaces for which a 2D analysis is not meaningful: the case of non-isotropic or structured surfaces.

Standardization within the GPS framework provides a framework, via two series of standards, for the development of measuring instruments and their connection to the standard meter, as well as for analysis methods and associated parameters.

The first series...