Tribology
 
 
Subject Code: EME4026
Aim of Subject: To introduce the students to the field of tribology.
Learning Outcome of Subject: At the completion of the subject, students should be able to :
  • Understand the meaning of tribology and its related branches, friction, wear, and lubrication.
  • Identify the different types of sliding and rolling friction and their respective theories.
  • Identify the different types of wear due to sliding and rolling and their respective theories.
  • Distinguish among the different lubrication regime, using Reynolds equation to calculate thrust and journal bearing parameters.
  • Able to differentiate among the lubrication theories.
  • Select material for bearing purpose, familiar with bearing lubrication systems, and understand bearing failures.
  • Understand the effects of chemical environment, and heat on lubricant.
  • Carry out laboratory experiments to measure surface roughness, friction coefficient, and wear rate.
Programme Outcomes:
  • Ability to acquire and apply fundamental principles of science and engineering(60%)
  • Capability to communicate effectively(10%)
  • Acquisition of technical competence in specialised areas of engineering discipline(10%)
  • Ability to identify, formulate and model problems and find engineering solutions based on a systems approach(10%)
  • Ability to work independently as well as with others in a team(10%)
Assessment Scheme:
  • Lab Experiments - work in groups, lab report writing, oral assessment at the end of lab (10%)
  • Tutorial / Assignment - group assignment,focus group discussion at tutorial,to enhance understanding of basic concepts in lecture(15%)
  • Test Quiz - written exam (15%)
  • Final Exam - written exam (60%)
Teaching and Learning Activities: 51 hours (lectures,tutorials and laboratory experiment)
Credit Hours: 3
Pre-Requisite: EME3026 Fluid Dynamics
References:
  • A.Z. Szeri, "Tribology: Friction, Lubrication, and Wear", Hemisphere Pub. Corp., 1980.
  • J.D. Summers, "An Introductory Guide to Industrial Tribology", Lavenham Press, U.K., 1994.
  • R.D. Arnell, P.B. Davies, J. Halling and T.L. Whomes, "Tribology: Principles and Design Applications", MacMillan, 1991.

Subject Contents

  • Introduction

    • Surfaces properties and surface contact. Properties of solid.
     
  • Friction

    • Types of friction. Theories of friction. Friction of non-metallic materials. Rolling resistance.
     
  • Wear

    • Types of wear. Rolling and sliding contacts.
     
  • Lubrication Regime

    • Lubrication theory. Reynolds equation. Thrust and journal bearings. Elastohydro-dynamics lubrication. Externally pressurized bearing. Boundary lubrication.
     
  • Bearing Materials

    • Bearing selection. Bearing failures. Lubrication systems.
     
  • Other Topics

    • Chemical effects. Heat and lubrication.
     

Laboratory

1. Profilometry.
2. Wear experiment