The Intrinsic Variables affecting the Stick-Slip Process

Stick-slip oscillations are normally analysed in terms of the kinetic friction-velocity and the static friction-time of stick characteristics of the rubbing surfaces. It is shown that, in addition, a critical distance, of the order of 10 -3 cm, enters into the calculations, being the minimum resolving power of the friction process. Stick-slip oscillations must normally have an amplitude greater than the critical distance, and thus increased spring stiffness is often effective in eliminating stick-slip. Using the critical distance concept, it is possible to deduce a simple relationship between the static and kinetic coefficients of friction, and this is confirmed by experimental data.