On the experimental verification of the Greenwood-Williamson model for the contact of rough surfaces

Abstract The Greenwood-Williamson model for the contact of rough surfaces was modified and submitted to experimental verification. Three-dimensional surface roughness characterization was applied as input data to the model (including empirical summit height distribution) which allowed a credible experimental verification of the relation between the approach of two real surfaces and the load on them. Within the range of elastic deformation and for quasi-isotropic surfaces, good agreement between results obtained experimentally and theoretically was observed.