Case Studies in Friction and Wear

This chapter examines three different problems involving friction and wear. The first case study involves most of the factors that affect friction and wear: it is that of a round shaft or journal rotating in a cylindrical bearing. This type of journal bearing is common in all types of rotating or reciprocating machinery: the crankshaft bearings of an automobile are good examples. Furthermore, it includes several advantages of possessing a relatively soft bearing material. The second case study is quite different: it involves the frictional properties of ice in the design of skis and sledge runners. The third case study is an introduction to some of the frictional properties of polymers—that is, the selection of rubbers for anti-skid tires.