Roughness evolution in mixed lubrication condition due to mild wear

Modelling of surface roughness evolution in time, as a function of the lubrication condition and other operating parameters (i.e. load, sliding/rolling ratio, and initial roughness of both contacting surfaces), is important for the understanding and prediction of various surface damage modes, such as surface distress, wear, and scuffing. Moreover, it is one of the key aspects in understanding friction and running-in phenomena. In the present study, a previously developed model for partial micro-elastohydrodynamic lubrication conditions is combined with a local Archard-type wear model to describe the surface topography evolution during the operation of a rolling/sliding lubricated contact. The model has been compared with a series of experimental results showing similar trends.