Extreme Tribology: Fundamentals and Challenges

Tribology is an unfamiliar term for many, but is experienced by all. It is the science of friction, wear and lubrication of contacting surfaces in relative motion. The aim of this book is to introduce the fundamentals of tribology as well as its challenges in extreme operating conditions.

The book comprises a historical background and an introduction to familiarize both undergraduate and postgraduate readers with such an important topic. It addresses a comprehensive coverage of classical tribology of solid contacts, friction mechanics, wear mechanisms and lubrication technologies. The tribology of polymer composites, MEMS and NEMS are explored. In addition, tribology of automotive components is presented, as are tribological applications in many practical situations.Various test methods used in evaluating wear are reviewed. Diverse techniques applied in predicting wear behavior by mathematical models, FE modeling and ANN approach are discussed.

The book reviews key features of extraordinary conditions associated with, but not limited to, harsh environments, severe sliding and poor lubrication challenges. A basic understanding of failure modes in tribological systems is covered. The state-of-the-art research on tribology under these extreme conditions is extensively discussed, which will be of interest to researchers. The book highlights solutions for extreme tribology problems and provides an overview of various factors affecting tribosystems in harsh conditions.