Tribology for a better world
Knowledge is power, and tribology which is the science of interacting surfaces in relative motion is an endless source of knowledge. Tribology can help us reduce waste of energy by minimizing friction and wear in various mechanisms and applications. Tribology can also contribute to sustainability and environmental protection by lowering CO2 emissions and resource consumption. In this paragraph, I will explain how tribology can achieve these goals and why it is important to learn more about it.
Friction is a force that opposes the motion of two surfaces in contact. Friction causes energy loss and heat generation, which can reduce the efficiency and performance of machines and devices. Friction also leads to wear, which is the gradual removal of material from the surfaces due to mechanical, chemical, or thermal effects. Wear can cause damage, failure, or reduced functionality of the components, which can increase maintenance costs and material waste. To reduce friction and wear, tribologists study the properties and behaviors of surfaces, lubricants, coatings, additives, and other materials that can influence the tribological system. By optimizing the design, selection, and operation of these elements, tribologists can improve the durability, reliability, and safety of machines and devices.
Tribology can also have a significant impact on reducing CO2 emissions and enhancing sustainability. According to a study by the German Society for Tribology , tribology can offer hidden contributions for these goals by increasing energy efficiency and material efficiency. The study estimated that a 30% reduction in friction losses could save 2.27–4.55 gigatons of CO2 per year globally . Moreover, a reasonable doubling of the service life of components through wear protection and condition monitoring could save more than 8.8 gigatons of resources per year globally . These savings could amount to 6–10 gigatons of CO2 equivalent or 16–25% of the global CO2 emissions in 2019 . Therefore, tribology can play a vital role in mitigating climate change and preserving natural resources.
If you are interested in learning more about tribology and its applications, you can visit www.theiet.org/impact-society/technical-webinars/tribology/, where you can find technical webinars on various topics related to tribology. You can also join the IET Tribology Network, a community of engineers and scientists who share their knowledge and experience on tribology. By joining this network, you can access exclusive content, events, and opportunities to connect with other tribology enthusiasts.
In conclusion, tribology is a fascinating and useful field of science that can help us reduce waste of energy and protect the environment. By applying tribological knowledge and principles, we can enhance the performance and lifespan of machines and devices, as well as lower our carbon footprint and resource consumption. Tribology is not only a technical challenge but also a social responsibility. Therefore, I encourage you to explore more about tribology and its benefits for our society.