SOLIDS IN STATIC CONTACT

The present review emphasizes that the load index in the relationship between load and area of contact may be independent of whether the deformation is elastic or plastic. The deformation process may be shown to be a function of the surface topography and the strength characteristics of the surfaces considered. Criteria for the transition from elastic to plastic deformation of the asperity tips are discussed. A review is presented of optical, stylus, electrical and thermal methods for obtaining a measure of the real area of contact. The Wiedemann-Franz law" relating electrical and thermal resistance does not apply for metal-metal contacts. © 1968."