A Review of DOE ECUT Tribology Surveys

Experts estimate that in 1978 over four quadrillion Btu of energy were lost in the United States because of simple friction and wear. The Energy Conversion and Utilization Technology Program (ECUT) in the U.S. Department of Energy commissioned six surveys from various experts in the field of tribology to learn about the causes of these energy losses and how to reduce them. The surveys included: 1) identification of typical tribology energy sinks in industry, 2) reduction of tribological losses in utilities and transportation, 3) tribological research needed for advanced heat engines, 4) energy conservation potential of new surface modifications, 5) identification of current tribology work sponsored by the government, and 6) an assessment of industrial research needs. A summary of the major findings of each survey is included in this paper.