Our research deals with the use of simple piezoelectric actuators able to modulate the dry friction between two solids in contact via an electric control. Ultrasonic vibrations can modify apparent friction between metals. By the direct stress of the contact stiffness, an artificial lubrication is maintained. This technique particularly used in metal forging in the Sixties becomes actually considered thanks to the performances of new actuators: piezoelectric materials. This actuator technology makes possible to generate high contact pressures on ranges of micrometric displacement at frequencies of a hundred kilocycles. From contact models resulting from the Hertz theory associated with the laws of behavior in mode of fretting, we define conditions of excitation allowing a reduction of friction. These conditions permit validating the choice of using the piezoelectric actuators. Experimental results are carried out in order to validate the interest and the potentiality of this technique.

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