Friction Science and Technology: From Concepts to Applications

Should have broad appeal in many kinds of industry, ranging from automotive to computers – basically any organization concerned with products having moving parts!

—David A. Rigney, Materials Science and Engineering Department, The Ohio State University, Columbus, USA

Completely Updated and Expanded Coverage of Frictional Concepts

Friction affects so many aspects of daily life that most take it for granted. Arguably, mankind’s attempt to control friction dates back to the invention of the wheel. Friction Science and Technology presents a broad, multidisciplinary overview of the constantly moving field of friction, spanning from the history of friction studies to the evolution of measurement instruments. It reviews the gamut of friction test methods ranging from simple inclined plans to sophisticated laboratory tribometers.

The book starts with introductory concepts about friction and progressively delves into the subtler fundamentals of surface contact, use of various lubricants, and specific applications like brakes, piston rings, and machine components.

Includes an Update to the American Society of Testing and Management (ASTM) Standards

This volume covers multiple facets of friction, with numerous interesting and unusual examples of friction-related technologies not found in other tribology books, such as:

• Friction in winter sports








• Friction of touch and human skin








• Friction of footware and biomaterials








• Friction drilling of metals








• Friction of tires and road surfaces

Describing the tools of the trade for friction research, this up-to-date edition enables engineers to purchase or build their own devices. It also discusses frictional behavior of a wide range of materials, coatings, and surface treatments, both traditional and advanced, like thermally oxidized titanium alloys, nanocomposites, ultra-low friction films, laser-dimpled ceramics, and carbon composites.

Even after centuries of study, friction continues to conceal its subtle origins, especially in practical engineering situations where surfaces are exposed to complex and changing environments. Authored by a field specialist with more than 30 years’ experience, this one-stop resource discusses all that is friction, from its humble beginnings to its broad application for today’s engineers.