ISOTROPIC FINISHING of gears for increased life Under the high load and temperatures experienced in truck final drives, a uniform oil film between contacting gear teeth is not always consistently maintained. Metal to metal contact at microscopic peaks can occur, producing wear debris and often resulting in Isotropic Finishing Birrana IF (Isotropic Finishing) is a 2-step chemical process by which the surface finish of gear teeth is improved. Tiny, randomly oriented “micro-indentations” are produced, which serve to improve gear fatigue strength and to help maintain a lubrication film in the gear mesh. The first step involves preferentially etching and mechanically removing surface “peaks” whilst leaving the “valleys”. The second step removes the chemically modified surface material and produces a high quality “polished” appearance. Only a very small amount of material is typically removed, and the accuracy of gear geometry is maintained. Advantages of Isotropic finishing * Reduces generation of wear debris during run-in. * Reduces friction between contacting gear teeth. This improves power transmission efficiency and reduces temperature in the gear mesh, reducing oil oxidation and maintaining lubricant film thickness. *Improves surface contact fatigue performance, particularly surface originating pitting normally associated with “thin film” lubrication, Removes elements of contamination and failure initiation that can limit the life of a Wheel Group sales@birrana.com.au www.birrana.com.au