Bearing Tribology

Abstract

Tribology is the science and engineering of interacting surfaces in relative motion. It includes the study and application of the principles of friction, lubrication, and wear. Tribology is an interdisciplinary subject and it covers many scientific disci- plines, such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, mechanics, thermodynamics, metallurgy, material and petrochemistry. Bearings are among the most important components in the vast majority of machines and exacting demands are made upon their carrying capacity and reliability. Therefore it is natural that rolling bearings should come to play such a prominent role and that over the years they have been applied in various fields such as mechanical equipment, instruments, home appli- ances, electronic computers, vehicles, and aerospace. With the technological development of the manufacturing industry, more and more bearings projects should be solved by friction, lubrication, and wear. With the enhancement of theory and applied research, tribology is recognized as the key factor to promote the performance of bearings effectively, and finally to raise the whole level of equipment