Tribology is the study of friction, lubrication and wear between surfaces in relative motion. It is a key area of mechanical engineering used to improve efficiency, reduce wear and extend the life of components.
This section provides engineering reference information on friction coefficients, lubrication methods, viscosity and wear reduction techniques used in practical design and manufacturing.
The pages below cover key tribology concepts including friction, lubrication types, fluid properties and wear mechanisms used in engineering applications.
Engineering coefficients of static and kinetic friction for common material combinations and surface conditions. Includes reference tables for use in friction, force, braking, clamping and mechanical design calculations.
Coefficients of Friction
Engineering information on gas-film lubrication and air bearings, including hydrodynamic and hydrostatic operation, advantages, limitations and typical applications where conventional liquid lubrication may be unsuitable.
Gas Lubrication
Engineering reference information on liquid lubrication, including mineral and synthetic oils, lubricant properties, additives and the selection of lubricants for bearings, gears and other mechanical systems.
Liquid Lubricants
Engineering information on solid lubricants used to reduce friction and wear where oils or greases may be unsuitable. Covers materials and applications for high temperatures, high loads, vacuum conditions and other demanding operating environments.
Solid Lubricants
Engineering reference information on viscosity and its importance in lubrication and fluid systems. Covers dynamic and kinematic viscosity, viscosity units, temperature effects and the selection of suitable lubricant viscosity.
Viscosity
Engineering guidance on reducing surface wear through lubrication, material selection, surface hardening and coatings. Covers common wear mechanisms including abrasive, adhesive, fatigue, erosive and fretting wear.
Wear ReductionTribology affects the performance and service life of many mechanical components including bearings, gears, shafts, seals, cams, guides and sliding surfaces. Friction determines the forces and energy losses at contacting surfaces, while lubrication is used to control friction, temperature and wear.
Successful tribological design therefore requires consideration of the contacting materials, surface condition, loading, relative speed, lubricant properties and operating environment. The appropriate solution may involve liquid, solid or gas lubrication together with suitable material selection and surface treatment.