korrelslijtage

Korrelslijtage is a form of wear caused by hard particles, such as sand, grit, or mineral fines, that are entrained between contacting surfaces. As the grains move, they act as abrasive bodies that cut, gouge, or plough material from the surface, producing scratches and grooves. Korrelslijtage is a type of abrasive wear and can occur under two-body conditions (where the abrasive material is partly attached to one surface) or three-body conditions (where loose grains reside between two sliding surfaces).

Mechanisms and severity depend on factors such as the hardness and size of the abrasive grains, their shape, the velocity and load, and the geometry of the contact. Sharp, hard grains tend to cause cutting wear, while rounded grains more often produce ploughing. High sliding speeds or pressures increase energy transfer and may lead to accelerated material removal and debris formation. Surface roughness and residual stresses influence the initiation of wear channels.

Materials and mitigation: Harder materials or protective coatings (for example ceramics or cemented carbides) can improve resistance, but toughness and ductility also play a role in how damage develops. Reducing the presence of abrasive particles (filtration, sealing), improving lubrication, and controlling temperature are common strategies. Design changes that reduce contact stresses, and using wear-resistant composites or surface treatments help minimize korrelslijtage in demanding environments.

Measurement and applications: Wear is typically quantified by mass or volume loss over a defined sliding distance or time. Industry-relevant applications include mining equipment, earthmoving machinery, pumps, valves, bearings, and hydraulic components exposed to particulate-laden media or dusty conditions.