Friction Unveiled: A Tribological Deep Dive Part I

This is the first episode in a two-part series exploring the fundamental principles of friction, tailored for lubrication engineers and tribologists. In "Friction Unveiled," we delve into the essential question: What is friction and why is its understanding so critical in our field? We will differentiate between static and dynamic friction, illustrating their distinct behaviors and implications. The episode will highlight practical examples where managing friction is paramount, examining scenarios where low friction is desired—such as enhancing the efficiency of race cars, extending the range of electric vehicles, optimizing turbofan performance, and improving the general operation of most machinery. Conversely, we will explore applications where high friction is essential for safety and function, including the critical roles of brakes and tires, with a specific example of wet brakes in cranes. Finally, we will introduce the key methods for controlling friction, providing an overview of lubrication regimes, the significance of viscosity, the role of lubricant additives, and the impact of surface coatings, concluding with some final thoughts on the pervasive influence of friction in engineering. 

For more information, visit Vern's presentation on friction and traction.

For a brief video demonstration of our conversation, check out our YouTube Short.

Join us for Part II on July 28, 2025!

Our Panelists:

Vern Wedeven, President of Wedeven Associates, Inc. (WAI), is a leading expert in tribology research and development, with a career spanning over three decades. Since 1987, he and his team at WAI have pioneered specialized tribology test machines and methods, culminating in the innovative Tribology-by-Design (T/D) approach—a comprehensive system integrating theory, tools, methodology, and strategy to solve complex tribological challenges. Dr. Wedeven's significant contributions include advancements in space propulsion systems, such as the Space Shuttle Main Engine turbopumps, and aeropropulsion, with work on jet engine oils, bearings, and gear materials. An alumnus of Calvin University, the University of Michigan, and Imperial College, London, his extensive experience includes tenures at NASA Glenn Research Center, NASA Headquarters, and SKF-America. He has authored over sixty technical papers, contributed to three books, and holds three patents. A Fellow of STLE, Dr. Wedeven has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Walter D. Hodson Award, the Captain Alfred E. Hunt Award, the Arch T. Colwell Cooperative Engineering Medal, and the STLE International Award. 

Marc Ingram has over 10 years experience working in Tribology.  His masters degree in Chemistry and PhD in Engineering (Tribology) helps him easily bridge the gap that so often exists between lubricant formulator and field/test engineer.  He has worked with all major oil and additive companies after a successful career at Imperial College, PCS Instruments and Afton Chemical.  Marc has extensive knowledge of all tribology test methods including both standardized and non-standa

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