Tribology Research Group
Tribology derives from the Greek word 'tribos', which means 'to rub'. It is defined as the science and technology of interacting surfaces in relative motion, and deals with all aspects of friction, lubrication and wear. Tribology is a key subject in mechanical engineering because nearly all machines depend on sliding surfaces for reliable operation. In fact surface wear and degradation is the key factor that limits the lifetime of most mechanical devices. The Tribology Group dealt with all aspects of Tribology, but had five main research themes:
- Surface measurement, using stylus probes and non-contact techniques
- Grinding modelling and wheel characterisation
- Environmentally responsible cooling of machining processes
- Bearing materials analysis
- Lubricants for new materials
Group Leader
- Prof. Andrew Torrance - Professor Emeritus
Past Research Projects
- HIROP
- BEARINGS
- Surgical instrument design
- Graphite seals
- Lubricants for new materials
- Lubricants for energy efficiency
Alumni
- Dr. Dennis De Pellegrin - Postdoctoral Research Fellow
- Dr. Hugues Renondeau - Postdoctoral Research Fellow
- Mr. Darko Babic - Postgraduate Research Student
- Mr. Andrea Bareggi - Postgraduate Research Student