Tribology teaching and study
Courses in the field of tribology
The new study regulations for the Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs have been in effect since the summer semester of 2003. For the first time in Germany, the lecture Tribology is included as a compulsory subject in a basic mechanical engineering course.
The lecture “Tribology 1” is designed to provide basic knowledge in friction, wear and lubrication. The importance of this knowledge in practice is demonstrated by the fact that the Institute of Tribology was established at the HS Mannheim on the initiative of regional industry and with its support.
First half of the semester
Here, students primarily learn about the basic mechanisms and interactions responsible for friction and wear.
In addition, you will learn how these two mostly undesirable phenomena can be influenced with the help of lubrication. In addition, the system-analytical approach to tribological problems in practice is taught.
The topics “mechanical-dynamic testing technology” and “viscosity” are explained using interesting practical examples in the laboratory.
Second half of the semester
The second part of the lecture then deals with the various lubricants and their ingredients (additives).
Advantages and disadvantages as well as application areas of mineral oil-based, synthetic and native lubricating oils, greases, emulsions, solid lubricants and gases are discussed in this context.
All topics are described in detail in the newly revised lecture notes accompanying the lecture (see table of contents of the Tri1 lecture).
The theoretical principles taught in the lecture are necessary to understand tribological processes. Nevertheless, the lecture is strongly oriented towards practical issues and application cases. Part of the lecture takes place in the modern equipped laboratory, in the immediate vicinity of the testing machines, measuring instruments and illustrative objects. In addition, video films help to present and convey the subject area as clearly as possible.
In order to gain an insight into the practical application of the basic knowledge imparted, a field trip to a company that deals intensively with tribological issues takes place towards the end of the semester.
Master program “Tribological Systems
In the Master’s program, the subject “Tribological Systems” can then be selected, building on the basic lecture. One focus of the lecture is on the development of practical laboratory tests, starting with the system analysis of the problem, through the planning of the tests and cost estimation, to the interpretation of the results.
In addition, it is important to deepen the basic tribological knowledge as well as to deal with special areas such as:
- Tribology of polymers
- Use of ceramics for tribological applications
- PVD and CVD coatings
- Modern methods of surface analysis
- Additive Chemistry
