A Model for Run-In and Other Transitions in Sliding Friction

Abstract

The mathematical framework for a sliding friction model for run-in and other tribological transitions is presented. The semiempirical model was developed to portray the commonly observed shapes, durations, and variations in kinetic friction coefficient versus sliding time curves. Terms in the model involve material properties and physical interface conditions such as transfer, debris accumulation, and surface roughness. The forms of individual terms are adjustable through the use of systemspecific scaling parameters in order to provide enough modeling flexibility to treat a variety of possible tribological conditions. Effects of such conditions as lubrication efficiency loss over time, and temperature build-up can be incorporated by modification of appropriate terms. Illustrative plots using the framework with several combined contributions are compared with experimental data from previous work. The basic framework of the model can be further developed to incorporate sub-models for specific sliding friction contributions and, in so doing, reduce the number of empirical system parameters required to model actual tribosystem behavior.