Methodology of a statistical and DOE approach to the prediction of performance in tribology - A DLC boundary-lubrication case study

This paper presents a well-defined methodology for empirical modeling in tribology that was verified using the results from several tribometers. We propose a sequence of required statistical methods used to develop an empirical model and we discuss in detail why they are appropriate for use in tribology, in comparison with other possible solutions. A step-by-step guide for the generation of an empirical friction model, as a case study, is illustrated for steel-steel and steel-DLC contacts in the boundary lubrication regime lubricated with a commercial, fully formulated oil (5W30, EACEA A5/B5).