45 YEARS OF DELIBERATIONS ON THE THERMO-MECHANICAL INTERPRETATION OF FRICTION AND WEAR PART I – THE MACROSCOPIC INTERPRETATION OF THE TRIBOLOGICAL PROCESS

Abstract

This first part will consider the friction couple or its part, identified with the open thermodynamic system. Dependences among extensive parameters and energetic interactions in the system and its boundaries with the environment are described in analytical terms. The dimensions of the energy dissipation zone, where the friction of solids takes place, are established. The thermo-mechanical nature of the tribological process is demonstrated. The wear conditions and distribution of energy generated by its particular elements are determined. A new quantity is introduced – the specific work of wear, which characterises the wear resistance of the tribological system and its parts. The effect of the reciprocal cover of solids’ friction surfaces on the energy balance structure in calorimetric testing is analysed. The concept of generalised wear is introduced and standardised. The discussion is restricted to processes at the macroscopic level of matter organisation.