Tribology

Research in the field of Tribology is focused on investigating the wear mechanisms which components experience during industrial operation, with the aim of extending the lifetime of the component and/or improving operational efficiency. Emphasis is placed on materials research and development. In recent years the major research projects have centred on cutting tool technology (cemented tungsten carbides and ceramics) and hard coatings (HVOF and Cold Spray). Minor research is also conducted on ferrous metals and other surface engineering processes. Research includes designing new compositions, producing the materials and conducting materials property and wear tests. Optimisation of the production processes used to manufacture the wear-resistant materials is also done.

The tribology laboratory is equipped to test a rage of wear mechanisms including dry and slurry abrasion, solid particle and slurry erosion, friction and sliding wear, and reciprocating wear under dry and lubricated conditions. Characterisation techniques available at the University assist in increased understanding of the wear mechanisms. These techniques include FESEM, EDS, XRD, Confocal and Optical microscopy, AFM, TEM, and FIBSEM. Collaborations with other research institutions also provide access to additional expertise and equipment. Apart from student projects, consulting work for industry is also undertaken.

A five day course on Tribology is also offered at MSc level. This course may also be done as a short course, where participants have the option of registering for a Certificate of Attendance or a Certificate of Competence. Delegates receive CPD points from ECSA. The course may also be offered in-house for a minimum of 10 students. Main topics covered in the course include lubrication, condition monitoring, bearings, gears, failure analysis, vehicle drive systems, vehicle dynamic systems, compressors, hydraulics, benchmarking tribology, and wear mechanisms.

For more information please contact Prof. Natasha Sacks Natasha.Sacks@wits.ac.za