Lubrication by a Melting Solid

Theoretical models for a slider bearing which is lubricated by one of its surfaces melting are developed. Melting is assumed to be caused by frictional heating. Two cases are considered. In the first the slider melts. In the second the track on which the slider rubs melts. The analyses allow prediction of the film thicknesses and friction under conditions in which this mode of lubrication occurs. The results support the idea that the low friction found in contacts with ice near its melting point is due to lubrication by melting.