Modern methods to retrieve innovative material solutions for tribosystems
A numerical, tribological data collection system with 12,100 data records was developed to find materials for tribological operations. The databse enables the user to search, retrieve and display information and data about the appropriate material couples in a fast and conventient way. The database is intended to be used by researchers, engineers, consultants and developers. All tribological characteristics of the listed materials are directly comparable; the data has been compiled and put into a standardized form, which covers the specific properties of nearly all tribometers used. The structure and the precisely defined formats may help guide future scientists and engineers to organize, archive and publish their tribological tests and results in a complete and comprehensive way.
The development and use of tribology research-in-progress database
Preliminary efforts leading to the development of a researchinprogress database on tribology are described. The database contains brief abstracts of current tribology research being conducted by industry,s of current tribology research being conducted by industry, universities, research institutes and government laboratories based on a survey of active researchers. It also contains information on the types of activities, general areas of interest, program objectives, and tribology applications. The database can be used to evaluate the current status of research and development activities in the United States. The survey results suggest that there is a strong interest in an applied research in tribology, and that the level of basic fundamental research is extremely limited. The primary program objectives cited in connection with the tribology activities include long life, low maintenance, failure-free machinery, fundamental understanding, and materials development for improved performance. It is planned to expand and update the database on a
A computer knowledge-based system for surface coating and material selection
Abstract Because the majority of component failures in service can be attributed to surface-initiated effects, there is much to be gained by the specification of an appropriate surface coating for the working environment. Unfortunately, the range of coatings available, and their interaction with the materials to which they are applied, makes this a task for which considerable expertise is required. In this paper we report progress in development of the Precept knowledge-based computer system, which is being constructed to aid the engineering designer in making an informed selection of surface coatings and materials to satisfy the design and service requirements of a component. In the paper we discuss the strategy for selecting surfaces based on the criteria of resistance to wear, fatigue and corrosion as well as the physical properties required of the bulk material. Fundamental to the selection process is the concept of a comnination; that is, a material and coating considered together as a single entity, with unique properties. This has considerable implications for the selection process, data and knowledge gathering and the implementation of the system. These points are discussed together with initial results of user testing the prototype system.