Tribology Notes

Tribology is the science and engineering of interacting surfaces in relative motion. It includes
the study of friction, wear, lubrication, and the design of bearings and lubrication systems.
The term "tribology" comes from the Greek word "tribos," which means rubbing or friction.

Tribology plays a crucial role in various industries such as automotive, aerospace,

manufacturing, and biomedical engineering. Understanding tribological phenomena is
essential for improving the efficiency, reliability, and durability of mechanical systems. For
instance, in the automotive industry, tribology helps in developing high-performance engines,
reducing fuel consumption, and minimizing wear and tear on engine components.

Key aspects of tribology include:

1. Friction: Friction is the resistance to motion when two surfaces are in contact with
each other. Tribologists study the factors influencing friction and methods to
minimize it, as excessive friction can lead to energy loss, wear, and damage to
components.
2. Wear: Wear refers to the gradual removal of material from the surface of a solid body
due to mechanical action. Tribologists investigate wear mechanisms, such as
adhesion, abrasion, and fatigue, and develop strategies to mitigate wear through
materials selection, surface treatments, and lubrication.
3. Lubrication: Lubrication involves the use of a lubricant, such as oil or grease, to
reduce friction and wear between two moving surfaces. Tribologists analyze
lubricants and lubrication systems to ensure proper film formation, viscosity, and
thermal stability under various operating conditions.
4. Bearing Design: Bearings are mechanical components used to support and guide
rotating or oscillating shafts. Tribologists design bearings to minimize friction, wear,
and noise while maximizing load-carrying capacity and reliability.

Overall, tribology encompasses a multidisciplinary approach, drawing upon principles from

mechanical engineering, materials science, chemistry, and physics to address challenges
related to surface interaction and motion in various engineering applications.