oppervlakteruwheidskenmerken

Oppervlakteruw is a term that appears in some Dutch-language materials science texts to describe a surface that displays a relatively high degree of roughness. It is not a formal or universally standardized term, and its exact meaning can vary with context. Generally it denotes surfaces whose texture deviates appreciably from an ideal, smooth plane, in contrast to terms like gladde oppervlakte or geruw oppervlakte with different connotations.

Roughness is quantified by parameters such as arithmetic average roughness Ra, root-mean-square roughness Rq, and peak-to-valley height Rz, typically evaluated over a defined sampling length. Measurement methods include stylus profilometry, optical profilometry (white-light or laser scanning), and atomic force microscopy, often with specific filtering and calibration procedures to separate roughness from waviness and form.

Oppervlakteruw has practical implications across engineering disciplines. Rough surfaces tend to increase mechanical interlocking and adhesion but may raise friction and wear. They can improve lubricant retention and sealing, but may also hinder coating uniformity. Surface treatments aim to control roughness to meet functional requirements.

In manufacturing, rough surfaces are common outcomes of turning, milling, casting, or additive manufacturing, and may be reduced through grinding or polishing or increased intentionally in textured surfaces for tribological or optical purposes. The term remains informal; researchers typically specify quantitative roughness metrics alongside qualitative descriptors to avoid ambiguity.

See also: surface roughness, Ra, Rq, Rz.