Modelling & Simulation

i-TRIBOMAT: The European Tribology Centre

Austria

Service ID:

EP342S3
Service description

i-TRIBOMAT offers advanced Modelling & Simulation services to predict, optimise, and understand the behaviour of tribological systems before physical testing. By integrating state-of-the-art numerical tools with extensive tribology expertise and validated experimental data, we help customers shorten development cycles, identify critical parameters, and reduce the need for trial-and-error testing. Our capabilities include contact mechanics, friction and wear modelling, lubrication and EHL simulations, thermal analysis, surface–lubricant interaction modelling, and life or failure prediction. We perform multi-physics evaluations—mechanical, thermal, fluid, and chemical—to assess how materials, coatings, surface textures, and lubricants behave under different loads, speeds, temperatures, and environments. Using FEM, CFD lubrication models, and hybrid physics–AI approaches, we support the design and optimisation of bearings, seals, gears, sliding systems, coatings, and other friction-critical components. Importantly, i-TRIBOMAT also operates numerous component-level test setups, allowing us to validate simulation outputs directly under representative operating conditions and to refine models using real physical behaviour. As part of our commitment to open science, i-TRIBOMAT maintains the TRIBOLOGY UNIVERSE™, an open online repository with free tribology apps accessible to anyone with an internet connection. These tools support basic calculations, parameter estimation, and early-stage design decisions. By combining simulation, analytics, component testing, open tools, and expert consultancy, i-TRIBOMAT delivers industry-ready insights that accelerate innovation and reduce risk across the full product development cycle.

Sector
Sector agnostic
Technology Readiness Level
TRL 4 – Technology validated in lab
TRL 5 – Technology validated in relevant environment
TRL 6 – Technology demonstrated in relevant environment
TRL 7 – System prototype demonstration in operational environment
TRL 8 – System complete and qualified
Financial requirements

The Modelling & Simulation service is offered as a paid service. Costs depend on the complexity of the model, required multi-physics interactions, the use of FEM/CFD tools, and the amount of validation against experimental data. Typical projects range from €3,000–€25,000 for component-level simulations, with hourly rates between €100–€150 for consultancy, setup, parameter identification, and model refinement.

Disclaimer related to service

Simulation outputs are predictive estimates based on the input parameters, assumptions, and material data supplied by the customer, and may not fully reproduce real application behaviour. i-TRIBOMAT is not liable for decisions, actions, or outcomes derived from the use or interpretation of the simulation results beyond the agreed scope. The customer remains responsible for verifying the suitability of the model and for validating critical design decisions through appropriate testing.

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