Adaptive finite element simulation of wear evolution in radial sliding bearings

► Global wear of a sliding composite bearing is simulated using the adaptive finite element method. ► In the performed model the wear coefficient depends on the local pressure and sliding velocity. ► A new remeshing technique has been introduced for the adaptive finite element wear modeling. ► A new experimental device has been designed for tribotesting of small-scale radial sliding bearings. ► The effect of clearance size on the wear of sliding bearings has been studied.