A Generalized Cross-Shear Wear Algorithm Based on a Novel Modification to Archard’s Law

Archard’s Law [1] has been used extensively for computer simulation of UHMWPE wear in hip [2], knee [3], and disc replacements [4]. It is widely accepted that cross-shear motion increases wear, and models have been proposed to account for this effect [5]. Most of the cross-shear models described previously were designed to work for a specific joint or the models break down under some kinematic conditions [6]. The purpose of the current study was to develop a completely general cross-shear wear algorithm applicable to any geometry or sliding conditions. The proposed algorithm was based on a modified form of Archard’s Law and was implemented in an explicit dynamic finite element framework for validation against experimental wear data reported in the literature.