A phenomenological model of the third body particles circulation in a high temperature contact

► A phenomenological model of the third body particles circulation is addressed, based on the third body concept. ► Indentations are made on one of the contact surfaces in order to have a better insight on the third body particles circulation. ► All tests are performed at high temperature. ► As the performed tribological tests are very short, it is then possible to show the difference between the role of the metallic and the oxide third body particles.