LAUSR

Abstract The modified scuffing equations based on the adiabatic shear instability induced by friction effects are postulated. With the present equations, an alternative softening mechanism of the near-surface material undergoing adiabatic shear failure is proposed. This mechanism is dominated by the frictional work, rather than the plastic-deformation work. Based on the mechanism, a quantitative criterion is developed for scuffing prediction, where scuffing failure results from the competition between the thermal softening and work hardening during adiabatic shear. Accordingly, the effect of materials properties associated with scuffing can be thoroughly understood, and quantitative evaluation of the material performance and efficient exploration of new materials subjected to extreme contact loading conditions are possible.