jon c said:Friction without wear, does it exist? This would be mechanical heat generation without wear. If so what is the mechanism by which it works? Does anyone know of any new purely mechanical vehicle brake designs which claim zero wear for example. Nothing electrical please.
Yes, friction can exist without wear. Friction is a force that resists motion between two surfaces in contact. It is caused by the irregularities in the surfaces and the interlocking of their microscopic particles. Wear, on the other hand, is the gradual loss of material from the surfaces due to friction. So, while friction is always present when two surfaces are in contact, wear may or may not occur depending on the relative hardness and smoothness of the surfaces.
The occurrence of wear in friction is affected by several factors such as the relative hardness and smoothness of the surfaces, the amount of force applied, the speed of motion, and the presence of lubricants. Harder and smoother surfaces with lower applied force and slower speeds are less likely to experience wear. Lubricants can also reduce wear by reducing the direct contact between the surfaces.
Yes, friction without wear can be beneficial in many cases. For example, friction between the tires of a car and the road allows the car to move forward. Similarly, friction between our shoes and the ground allows us to walk. In these cases, the amount of wear is negligible compared to the benefits of friction.
Friction without wear is useful in industrial applications in several ways. It can be used to hold objects in place, such as in clamps, screws, or bolts. Friction can also be harnessed to control the speed and motion of machines and vehicles. Additionally, friction between machine parts can generate heat, which can be utilized in processes such as welding and soldering.
In some cases, friction without wear can be harmful. When two surfaces are in constant contact and experience high levels of friction, heat can be generated, leading to overheating and damage to the surfaces. This can be seen in cases such as brakes in cars and machinery with moving parts. In these cases, measures must be taken to reduce friction and prevent wear to ensure the longevity and proper functioning of the surfaces.