Tribology : A Simple Guide to the Study of Friction

This book addresses the types of seals and bearings that are commonly found in most rotating and moving machinery, including how they are designed, how they work and what can be done to ensure that they continue maintain proper lubrication and successful operation.

Tribology is the scientific and engineering study of friction, and in common practice; it most often involves the control and reduction of friction. This is particularly critical to the successful and continued operation of moving parts.

The author discusses the critical lubrication issues dealt with in gears and gear boxes, focusing on specific types of mechanical seals, including compression seals, hydrodynamic seals, hydrostatic seals, and mechanical face seals. Dr. Watterson also introduces the reader to the major types of bearings, including roller bearings, ball bearings and various types of sealed bearing systems, and their maintenance and lubrication requirements.

James M. Watterson has a PhD in mechanical engineering and is currently serving as independent training consultant with JMW, United Arab Emirates, since January 2003, and as part-time senior lecturer/lead trainer-commissioning and process start-up in the oil and gas refineries with ADNOC since February 2011. He trains groups of maintenance, operations, instrumentation, and planning engineers in groups of 8 to 20. This includes public courses and in-house courses. Usually spanning five days, these courses are highly interactive and use many types of software for vibration analysis, compressors-turbines. There are also many 3D animated videos for most rotating equipment. Coupled with this, he also provides self-assessment questions. Previously he was managing director at JW Management and Marketing Consultancy from September 1985 to October 2000.