COMPUTER-AIDED VISION ENGINEERING (CAVE) - QUANTIFICATION OF WEAR PARTICLE MORPHOLOGY

Microscopic wear particles transported by the lubricant from wear site s carry with them important information relating to the condition of m achinery. Quantitative methods for determining the morphological attri butes of particles have been established in terms of their size, shape , and surface texture. This paper reviews some of the developments tha t have taken place and describes the stages involved in processing the particles, including the use of a neural network system to classify p articles in relation to different wear regimes. The development of a n ew interactive control system, CAVE, is described which is utilized in conjunction with image processing procedures. It is designed for use by researchers engaged in the study of wear processes and also for eng ineers involved in routine monitoring of wear processes in operating m achinery.