Machine failure and its avoidance—what is tribology's contribution to effective maintenance of critical machinery?

Abstract

Following a brief historical overview of maintenance practice, the principles that govern tribological phenomena are summarized in terms of the issues involved in the upkeep and care of operating machinery. Condition-based and proactive maintenance strategies are identified in order to permit examination of the key tribological factors involved and what steps are being taken to assist in the implementation of good practices. Some of the issues to be faced when maintaining equipment in the aerospace, steel and pharmaceutical industries are highlighted as a basis for indicating ways in which the tribologist can further contribute to improving maintenance practice.