Arduino Pin-on-disk Wear Tester

While working for Luxfer Graphic Arts during the summer of 2021, I was challenged with evaluating the wear resistance of various materials as part of a new product initiative. In addition to coordinating the outsourcing of testing to other firms, I led the design, fabrication, and use of a pin-on-disk wear testing apparatus based on ASTM G99 specifications.

The testing device, from above, illustrating the controls, rotation counter, CNC-milled magnesium chassis, and the machined copper weights.

Inside the chassis is an Arduino with motor controller hats and stepper motors. The stepper motors rotate the samples which are abraded by steel ball bearings embedded in the chassis.

Milling (facing operation) the chassis top with a magnesium spoil board (perk of working at a magnesium rolling factory)

Hand-tapped holes in the support struts allow for brass machine screws to hold the chassis together.

Concept sketch of the design.