To this point, the field of lubrication has been conceptualized using several noncontiguous modes of operation — boundary, fluid-film, and dry and solid lubrication. Engineers and analysts have long had to deal with old evidence that many tribological devices, such as flat surface and centrally pivoted sliders, can act as viable bearings — contradicting basic hydrodynamic theory.

Tribology of Interface Layers introduces a new concept wherein disparate modes are shown to actually be particular phases of a tribological continuum spanning a wide array of material lubricants. The author details these phenomena and presents a novel definition of lubricants as intermediate layers.

Explores the phenomenon of continuum spectrum as applied to new powder lubrication technology

The book illustrates that contrary to previous understanding, the various lubrication modes — from dry to hydrodynamic to powder lubrication — all overlap each other within a tribological spectral continuum. It also elucidates the fact that bearings, seals, dampers, and similar devices using submicron powder lubricants possess quasi-hydrodynamic characteristics akin to conventional fluid films. Similarly, powder films possess quasi-hydrodynamic features that enable them to act as conventional fluid film bearings. The field of tribology has traditionally been presented in terms of disparate regimes, but this method of classification lacked sufficient rigor. This volume explains that characterization and treatment of any one regime may require the simultaneous accounting of several different modalities that are present in a particular mode of operation. Based on experimental and theoretical work, this text shows how the interdependence of powder and hydrodynamic lubrication exemplifies that perpetuity in tribological processes.

Author Hooshang Heshmat was on hand for a book signing at the 2010 STLE Meeting.

Dr. Heshmat was the 2007 recipient of the Mayo D. Hersey Award, bestowed on an individual in recognition of distinguished and continuous contributions over a substantial period of time to the advancement of the science and engineering of tribology.

Check out Dr. Heshmat's wikipedia page.