Tribology

Tribology is an interdisciplinary work field of scientific and technical character that includes friction, wear and lubrication of two contact bodies in relative motion. Contact surfaces have different shapes, topography and material properties, while interface can be filled up with air, lubricant or some other substance. Therefore, intermediate media with its physical and chemical properties represents an equivalent part of the tribological system together with both contact surfaces. Investigation of problems in tribological contact requires knowledge from the field of physic, mechanics, materials, chemistry and mechanical engineering. Progressive wear of contact surfaces leads to reduced durability and reliability of mechanical systems and consecutively to increased loss of material, higher consumption of energy and higher maintenance costs. In extreme situation wear of contact surfaces can lead to sudden fracture or damage of machine elements which will increase maintenance costs as well as production costs due to cessation of the production. Application of advanced materials such as ceramics, polymers, aluminum alloys and sintered materials, surface treatment and coating deposition techniques, biodegradable lubricants and proper constructional solutions, mentioned problems can be greatly reduced or even eliminated.