This will give an understanding of the rate wear and friction as the lubrication regime changes. Friction is also measured and recorded as the tests progress. The lubrication regime is considered by measuring the potential difference between sliding contacts to indicate their separation, and by comparison with theoretical wear regimes. The bench tests allow an understanding of the basic wear mechanisms and friction of slipway linings. Wear mechanisms are identified using post-test techniques such as light and scanning electron microscopes. Tribology factors involved in sliding contact under variable lubrication regimes in a hostile sea water environment are considered. This involves modelling the wear and friction coefficient of both keel and slipway materials over a range of environmental and lubrication conditions using micro-friction and rotary tribometer bench test machines. The project examines the suitability and performance of current materials and lubrication selections under simulated launch conditions and environment. Currently this is apparent only as problems of high friction or even seizure occur during the launch and recovery of the lifeboat. resulting in unpredictable lubrication regimes at launch. Due to the exposed nature of the slipway and the unpredictable intervals between lifeboat launches the lubricant grease can be washed away, dry out or become contaminated with wind blown sand e. Current solutions involve using a range of low friction materials to line the keelway, and this is often supplemented by manually applying grease to ensure reliable launches. To achieve reliable slipway launch conditions lifeboats currently rely on low, controlled co-efficient of friction between lifeboat keel and the slipway channel. In rough conditions it is sometimes impossible to launch lifeboats to a rescue without the aid of an inclined slipway. Abstract: This project considers the design, tribology and wear mechanisms involved in lifeboat slipway launch systems. The project will encompass product design and use of materials and will therefore be beneficial to the RNLI and the marine industry in general, particularly with regards to marine sliding friction, slipway and marine railway applications and modelling. The project will thus provide a model for the performance and wear of slipway launch systems. These results are used to determine the contact forces and likely areas of wear involved as the lifeboat leaves the slipway. Actual launch conditions are recorded using GPS sensors to determine trajectory and 3 dimensional behaviour of the lifeboat as it travels on the slipway. Lubrication is considered by measuring the potential difference changes between sliding contacts and comparison with theoretical wear regimes. This involves modelling the wear and friction co-efficient of both materials over a range of environmental and lubrication conditions using micro-friction and rotary tribometer bench test machines. The project examines the suitability and performance of current materials and lubrication selections under simulated launch conditions. Tribology involved in sliding contact under variable lubrication regimes in a hostile sea water environment is considered. This project considers the design, tribology and wear mechanisms involved in slipway launch systems of this type. Due to the exposed nature of the slipway and the unpredictable intervals between lifeboat launches the lubricant grease can be washed away or dry out resulting in unpredictable lubrication regimes at launch. Current solutions involve using low friction composite materials to line the keelway, and this is supplemented by manually applying grease to ensure reliable launches.
![royal lifeboat slipways royal lifeboat slipways](http://www.ukemergency.co.uk/photo/p1360851.jpg)
Sustainable Design of Lifeboat Launch systems Synopsis: To achieve reliable slipway launch conditions lifeboats currently rely on low, controlled coefficient of friction between lifeboat keel and slipway.