Tribology

Tribology is the science of relative motion between contacting surfaces. The word tribology is derived from the Greek tribos, which means rubbing. The study of friction, wear, lubrication, and contact mechanics are important elements of tribology as related to connectors.

APEX has extensive experience in all aspects of tribology related to connectors and interconnection systems. Proactive prevention and analysis of problems such as fretting corrosion is key to connector reliability

WHY APEX:

• Obtain specialized experience in connector-related tribology
• Utilize a blend of laboratory and theoretical experience
• Employ pioneers in contact tribology
• Draw on proven knowledge from extensive publications in tribology

APEX TRIBOLOGICAL ASSESSMENTS INCORPORATE THE FOLLOWING:

• Ensuring proper plating material and thickness
• Analyzing normal force in the mating of the connector
• Suggesting required lubrication related to insertion and durability issues
• Studying connector frictional properties to ensure good mating characteristics
• Increasing durability aspects of connector contacts
• Optimizing geometries of mating contacts

EXAMPLES OF APEX TRIBOLOGICAL ASSESSMENTS:

• Solved the problem of high insertion/withdraw forces of an LIF connector by modifying the plating hardness
• Increased the durability of a gold-plated card edge connector with a special anti-wear lubricant
• Reduced the card edge connector insertion force by a simple geometry change
• Discovered and eliminated fretting corrosion caused by fan vibration in a computer
• Analyzed and solved evasive intermittency in an automotive ignition circuit