TS 5796

TS 5796 is a terminology standard for terms and definitions related to friction and wear in plain bearings. It helps engineers, designers, and technical authors use the same language when discussing surface interaction, load carrying, and bearing behaviour.

What friction and wear mean in plain bearings

Plain bearings support motion by sliding contact rather than by rolling elements. In this context, friction is the resistance that acts against relative motion, while wear is the progressive loss of material from the contacting surfaces over time. Clear terminology matters because it supports consistent discussion of bearing design, lubrication, service life, and failure mechanisms.

The scope of this standard is limited to the terminology for friction and wear in plain bearings. It does not, on the basis of the supplied scope, establish a test procedure, performance limit, or design requirement; instead, it organizes the terms and definitions used in this technical field. That makes it useful as a reference for specifications, documentation, and engineering communication.

• Friction: resistance to relative motion between contacting surfaces
• Wear: gradual material loss from surfaces under contact and motion
• Plain bearing: a bearing that supports load through sliding contact rather than rolling elements
• Terminology standard: a reference document that aligns technical terms and definitions