Wear prediction for metals

In spite of the large number of wear models found in the literature, no model can predict metal wear a priori based only on materials property data and contact information. The complexity of wear and the large number of parameters affecting the outcome are the primary reasons for this situation. This paper summarizes the current understanding of wear modelling for metals. Several recent approaches such as wear mapping and wear transition diagrams have suggested some future possible directions for improvement. Some success has been achieved in describing severe wear of steels under unlubricated conditions using thermomechanical approaches. However, modelling of mild wear remains problematic, especially under lubricated conditions. In mild wear, asperity contact events dominate the wear processes. A single asperity collision simulation apparatus has been used to study asperity-asperity contact phenomena. Shear strain and strain accumulation were found to be the dominant underlying causes for wear. It is proposed that future research in wear prediction for metals incorporate the following aspects: wear mapping, temperature, shear strain response, boundary lubricating film strength, and surface roughness.