Selection and application of wear-resistant materials to increase service life of components

The approach to erosion and wear testing is discussed, emphasizing the set-up of test methods to allow reliable experimental data of technological usefulness to be obtained. Case histories regarding testing in simulative conditions and applications of advanced ceramics, surface treatments and coatings are presented. The high potential of new materials, surface treatments and coatings to reduce wear damage has been demonstrated through several laboratory and field tests.