Determination of Archard’s wear coefficient and wear simulation of sliding bearings

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to present the methodology to determine Archard’s wear coefficient. By applying this coefficient into the numerical simulation of wear, it is possible to predict wear without long lasting and usually expensive experiments. Design/methodology/approach To determine necessary particles of Archard’s equation and calculate wear coefficient K, an experimental investigation is proposed. Afterwards, the wear simulation is executed in FEM software ANSYS 18.1. Analytical method is offered to determine worn volume for cylinder-in-cylinder contact, based on “inclination” of inner cylinder. Findings Comparing the value of Archard’s coefficient obtained by this experimental investigation with the values from the literature for the similar materials, high correlation is noted. Furthermore, numerically calculated contact pressure is confirmed with analytical method. Trend of pressure decrease due to wearing process, as well as due to increase of contact surface is observed. Practical implications Since the prediction of the wear is closely related to the life cycle assessment of bearings, and the machines in general, it has significant practical importance for designers. Originality/value Determination of Archard’s coefficient is usually performed by conventional pin-on-disk tribometers. This methodology offers a different approach for the determination of Archard’s wear coefficient for cylinder-in-cylinder contact, which is convenient for shaft-sliding bearing contact.