Rolling Friction Behavior of Magneto-Rheological Elastomer under a Magnetic Field
The Magneto-Rheological Elastomer (MRE) is a smart material and
its mechanical properties such as modulus or stiffness can be changed according
to the strength of a magnetic field. There have been studies on controlling such
characteristics of MRE to be adopted in various mechanical systems, especially
to reduce vibrations. There have also been increasing interests in friction and
wear characteristics of MRE as it is highly related to the durability of
material. It, however, only focuses on linearly moving conditions. In this
study, rolling friction behavior of MRE under a magnetic field is evaluated. MRE
has been manufactured in a shape of hollow cylinder and electromagnets are
implemented inside. Test apparatus has been configured to calculate the rolling
friction coefficient of MRE. The results show that rolling friction coefficient
of MRE has different trend when a magnetic field is applied.