Calculation of Stribeck curves for line contacts

A mixed lubrication model is presented by which Stribeck curves can be calc ulated. By means of the Stribeck curve the transitions from boundary lubric ation to mixed lubrication and the transitions from mixed lubrication to el asto-hydrodynamic lubrication can be predicted and subsequently the lubrica tion regime in which a particular contact operates can be predicted. Calcul ations are restricted to line contacts, because of the wide range of applic ations of line contacts or of very wide elliptical contacts. (C) 2000 Elsev ier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.