In this paper, a new estimate for periodic non-sticking (i.e., zero stop pe
r cycle) solutions is presented for the steady state responses of the Coulo
mb friction oscillator subjected to harmonic loading. Compared with the Den
Hartog (1931 Transactions of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers
53, 107-115 [1]) estimate, the new estimate leads to the same formulae for
the maximum displacement and its time lag, but only the new estimate offers
the closed-form formulae for the maximum velocity and its time lag. More i
mportantly, a simple formula is derived for estimating the minimum driving
force amplitude needed to prevent an oscillating object From sticking to th
e friction surface on which it slides. The validity of the assumptions made
for the new estimate and the accuracy of the formulae developed are confir
med by comparing with the exact solutions (Hong and Liu 2000 Journal of Sou
nd and Vibration 229, 1171- 1192 [2]). It is also Found that there exists t
he best driving force amplitude for maximum dissipation efficiency. (C) 200
1 Academic Press.