Module overview
By minimizing the huge amount of energy and material loses through friction and wear of mechanical components, tribology and lubrication engineering have an enormous role in solving global challenges such as energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, safety and pollution.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- To provide students with an understanding of how tribology fits in the overall narrative of the programme.
- Establish a fundamental understanding of tribological engineering by balancing both, theoretical and practical aspects of tribology
Syllabus
Topics to be covered will include:
- Smooth/rough surfaces in contact, solid friction
- Uses of Reynolds equation and Lubrication regimes
- Tribological components (gears, bearings) geometry, design and parameters calculation
- Lubricants: types, composition, properties, testing and specifications, condition monitoring, health, safety and environment
- Damage and failure of tribological contacts
- Selection of rubbing materials
- Engine tribology: lubrication of components, tribological testing, advanced materials
The lectures will draw on examples from applications within the automotive, marine, aerospace, oil and gas and power generation sectors. Emphasis will be placed on achieving low wear and friction and gaining sustainability and fuel efficiency through design of components and selection and condition monitoring of materials and lubricants.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
The teaching methods to be employed in the delivery of this module include:
- 36 lectures (three 45 minute sessions per week) which develop the themes described in this module. Skeleton notes are given out at the start of the course, which means you only have to note down the key points during the lecture, but still have a full set of notes to work from; these will also be made available on Blackboard.
- Industrial guest lecture.
- Additional research review papers are provided to give an overview of the themes of the course.
- Formative online assignments on Blackboard.
- Solutions to assigned problems.
- Demonstrations and video materials where and when appropriate.
The learning activities include:
- Individual reading of background materials and course texts, plus work on examples.
- Example sheets and solutions.
Type | Hours |
---|---|
Revision | 114 |
Lecture | 36 |
Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
General Resources
Copies of Textbook. to be made available by the lecture team.
Textbooks
Zhang, X. and Changlin, G (2004). An Intelligent System for Tribology Design in Engines. Tribology Series, Elsevier Science Ltd, Volume 46.
SAE, Sp-539 (1983). Studies of Engine Bearings and Lubrication.
Briant, J., Denis, J., Parc, G (1989). Rheological Properties of Lubricants, Chap 8. Paris: Publ. Inst. Franc. du Petrol, Editions Techip.
Cameron, A (1966). Principles of Lubrication. Longman.
Taylor, C.M (1993). Engine Tribology, Tribology Series. Elsevier Science Ltd, Volume 26.
Rahnejat, H., (2010). Tribology and dynamics of engine and powertrain:Fundamentals, applications and future trends. Woodhead Publishing Limited.
Williams, J.A., (2005). Engineering Tribology. Cambridge University Press.
Haycock R. E, Hillier J.E.,. Automotive Lubricants Reference Book. Wiley-Blackwell.
R. Lewis and R.S. Dwyer-Joyce (2002). Automotive engine valve recession. London: Professional Engineering.
Neale, M.J. and Gee, M (2000). Guide to wear problems and testing for industry. London: Professional Engineering Publishing.
Mortier, R.M. and Orsulik, S.T., (1997). Chemistry and Technology of Lubricants. London: Blackie.
Stachowiak G.H. (2005). Engineering Tribology. Elsevier / Butterworth-Heinemann.
Petroleum products and Lubricants. ASTM Standards, Annual book of ASTM standards volumes 05.01 to 05.03.
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Assignment | 10% |
Assignment | 10% |
Examination | 80% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Examination | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Examination | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External