Microscopic wear particles transported by the lubricant from wear sites carry with them important information relating to the condition of machinery. Quantitative methods for determining the morphological attributes of particles have been established in terms of their size, shape, and surface texture. This paper reviews some of the developments that have taken place and describes the stages involved in processing the particles, including the use of a neural network system to classify particles in relation to different wear regimes. The development of a new interactive control system, CAVE, is described which is utilized in conjunction with image processing procedures. It is designed for use by researchers engaged in the study of wear processes and also for engineers involved in routine monitoring of wear processes in operating machinery.
