Bruker at STLE 2026
Come visit us at Booth 903
May 17 - 21 | Hyatt Regency New Orleans | New Orleans, LA
Meet us in New Orleans for the annual STLE Annual Meeting & Exhibition, where we’ll be showcasing our suite of mechanical and nanomechanical testers for materials characterization, development, and process monitoring, and our 3D optical profilers for non-contact investigation. Connect with Bruker experts both in the talks and on the expo floor to hear case studies and learn more about our technologies. Our team is excited to help you discover how Bruker’s advanced solutions can drive your research and expand your production. See you there!
Conference Host:
Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers
Conference Venue:
Hyatt Regency New Orleans | New Orleans, LA
Bruker Presentations
Influence of Brake Rotor Graphite Morphology on Friction and Wear Properties, When Tested Under SAE J2522 Standard
Abstract: The graphite morphology in brake rotors, especially flake length and distribution, critically influences friction and wear during braking. This study evaluates three rotor materials—gray cast iron C30, C40, and FC100—distinguished by graphite flake lengths. Using SAE J2522 standardized conditions in a controlled UMT Tribolab, each rotor was paired with three brake pad types: non-asbestos organic (NAO), lowmetallic, and semi-metallic. Testing captured friction stability, wear loss, and surface interactions, showing graphite flake characteristics significantly affect friction layer formation, stability, and wear mechanisms across pad types. Results highlight the importance of rotor microstructure in optimizing pad–rotor compatibility and improving braking performance. Rigorous bench-scale tribometer testing bridges microstructural effects with friction behavior in automotive braking.
Sai Krishna Kancharla
Bruker, Eden Prairie, MN
Electrotribological Characterization of Lubricants Under Coupled Mechano-Electrical Stress
Abstract: The transition to EV powertrains requires a paradigm shift in lubrication science due to the coupled tribo-electrical phenomena—high mechanical stress combined with stray electrical current at contact interfaces. Conventional tribotesting is inadequate for these new conditions, hindering precise fluid formulation. This work introduces an instrumented electrotribological assessment using a modular tribometer with integrated electrical measurement capabilities. Comprehensive testing shows that the presence of electrical current density fundamentally alters critical performance parameters: the Coefficient of Friction (COF), Electrical Contact Resistance (ECR), and wear morphology. The methodology demonstrates how one adaptable platform can generate the necessary critical performance metrics for accelerating the development and validation of next-generation EV and hybrid drivetrain lubricants. This is essential for ensuring component durability and overall EV reliability.
Damien Yiyuan Khoo
Bruker Nano Inc., Bayan Lepas,
Penang, Malaysia
Machine Learning-Driven Optimization and Scaled-Down Tribological Testing of Sustainable Brake Pad Materials Containing High Recycled Content
Abstract: The integration of experimental tribological testing with machine learning enables accelerated optimization of sustainable brake pad materials incorporating up to 62% recycled content. Scaled-down friction performance tests using the Bruker UMT Tribolab under FMVSS 135 conditions generated friction and wear data for multiple formulations. Artificial Neural Networks and Random Forest models were trained on this data, achieving robust predictions of friction coefficient and wear behavior. Material characterization linked microstructure to friction stability and thermal performance. The optimized formulation exhibited improved friction consistency, thermal stability, and wear resistance. This combined approach demonstrates an efficient pathway to develop high-performance, environmentally sustainable brake materials, providing critical insights for the automotive braking industry.
Sai Krishna Kancharla
Bruker, Eden Prairie, MN
UMT TriboLab
Bruker’s Universal Mechanical Tester (UMT) platform has been the most versatile and widely used tribometer on the market since the first model debuted in 2000. Now, newly designed from the ground up, the UMT TriboLab™ builds on that legacy of versatility with a unique modular concept that harnesses more functionality than ever before—all without any compromise in performance. In fact, the UMT TriboLab offers higher speeds, more torque, and better force measurement than any of its competitors, plus it introduces powerful new features for improved efficiency and ease-of-use.
ContourX-500
Our Most Advanced Benchtop Design
- Advanced automation configured with encoded XY stage, auto tip/tilt head, and auto intensity
- Easy-to-use interface for quick, accurate results
- Wide range of customizable automation features for unique and specialized measurement and analysis
Meet With Us at the Show
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