ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the overarching and well-known scientific method: using the tribosystem analysis (TSA) to define the problem, analyze it, apply a hypothesis, test that hypothesis, iterate on possible solutions, and select the one that works best. It deals with a list of options for addressing wear problems, explains what kinds of information tribotesting can provide and discusses test selection by TSA matching. The chapter explores mentioning some pitfalls associated with meeting specifications for wear behavior based on a test method that bears little correlation to the intended application. Few businesses have the resources to establish a research and development program or to hire a group of full-time tribologists to solve wear and friction problems. The chapter describes most sliding wear tests used in materials selection or in laboratory-scale wear research and development usually consist of applying constant load, speed, and duration.
