The Applied Science and Tribology Lab (ASTL) at Nye Lubricants was developed to bridge the expertise in our R&D group, where new lubricants are formulated, and the Application Development and Validation Testing (ADVT) lab, where application simulation and pre-validation test development is the focus. The ASTL group will be focused on simulating application contact mechanics to better understand the critical relationships between materials, contact geometries, and tribological film formation.

Through the use of many testing methodologies, like Oscillatory Tribometry, 4-Ball Wear/EP, 3D Optical Profilometry, Bearing Grease life testing, Fretting Wear, and a Mini Traction Machine, we have the ability to model almost any contact geometry and material to understand an application at the contact level with a mixture of sliding, rolling, and combined motions.

Tribology is at the core of all that we do at Nye, and with this development of the Applied Science and Tribology Lab and the associated team, we have created a three-pronged approach to creating innovative solutions for lubrication problems. This new approach will allow us to design lubricant solutions that converge around the requirements for physical properties, contact mechanics, and application needs.

At Nye, the Technical Department is focused on designing lubricant solutions not just for today, but for the demands of tomorrow. The creation of the ASTL group is the latest way that Nye is expanding our skills and expertise in order to better understand our customer’s needs, their applications, and how to improve life and performance.

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