The influence of friction geomodifiers on the tribosystems balance

The article considers the problem of prolonging the life of machines and mechanisms by the influence of friction geomodifiers on tribosystems, which function in the conditions of boundary lubrication of mating surfaces contacting each other. The thickness of the lubricant layer is significantly less than the value of the surfaces roughness. The wear of surfaces is caused by physicochemical interactions occurring on the spots of their actual contact. The general concept of causality of the impact of friction geomodificators on mating surfaces is presented in the article. The action mechanism of friction geomodifiers is based on preliminary cleaning of rubbing surfaces, further decomposition of the modifier’s minerals, and interaction of the decomposed elements with the substrate metal and substances, presented in the technological environment as a result of high-temperature exposure in the contact spot. The cause of the friction geomodifiers exposure to the surface of mating parts remains open for discussion. As an example, one of the latest studies relevant to the domestic truck industry is given in the paper.