TribologyTalks

By PCS Instruments

TribologyTalks is your gateway to understanding the intriguing world of tribology. Our podcast demystifies the fundamentals and explores advanced topics in friction, wear, and lubrication, while spotl... more

· Science

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FAQs about TribologyTalks:

How many episodes does TribologyTalks have?

The podcast currently has 28 episodes available.

TribologyTalks episodes:

April 30, 2026 Christopher Clayson: From Esters to Electrification
In Part 2 of Tribology Talks, PCS Instruments host Dr Kieran Nar continues the conversation with Christopher Clayson from Cargill, exploring how esters, electrification and sustainability are shaping the next generation of lubricant development.
The episode looks at why esters are attracting growing interest across EV fluids, industrial oils and marine applications, from low traction and thermal stability to biodegradability, carbon footprint reduction and improved efficiency.
Kieran and Christopher also discuss the pace of change across the industry, the importance of updated test methods for electrified systems, and the role of collaboration, digitalisation and interdisciplinary thinking in developing advanced lubricants for the future.
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34min
April 09, 2026 Christopher Clayson: How Do You End Up in Tribology?
Join us for our first podcast of 2026.
In this episode, Kieran Nar sits down with Christopher Clayson, Application Scientist at Cargill, to talk through how a background in natural sciences turned into a career in tribology.
From early placements to working in R&D, Chris shares how his role has developed and what it’s really like operating at the intersection of chemistry, physics and engineering.
The conversation also touches on how the lubricants industry is shifting, from traditional engine oils to the demands of electric vehicles, and why collaboration across the field is becoming more important than ever.
A candid look at how careers take shape, and how the industry is evolving alongside them.
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25min
October 24, 2025 Friction Chats with Tom Reddyhoff - Part 2
In this engaging second part of our conversation with Dr. Tom Reddyhoff on TribologyTalks, he dives deeper into his innovative research on compliant contacts and their surprising influence on taste perception. Discover how friction plays a crucial role in mouthfeel and the sensory experience of food and beverages. Tom shares insights from his work with PepsiCo on carbonation and astringency, explaining how tribological principles can enhance product development. We also explore cutting-edge monitoring techniques, including acoustic emission and machine learning, which are revolutionizing our understanding of tribological interactions. Join us as we uncover the fascinating intersection of tribology, food science, and technology in shaping consumer experiences. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion.
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20min
October 09, 2025 Friction Chats with Tom Reddyhoff - Part 1
In this episode of TribologyTalks, CEO Steven Horder sits down with Dr. Tom Reddyhoff, an experimental reader in tribology at Imperial College London. We delve into Tom's journey from mechanical engineering to the specialised field of tribology, exploring how his early experiences and the support from PCS Instruments shaped his research. Tom discusses his groundbreaking work on lubricant additives and laser-textured surfaces, revealing how these innovations can significantly reduce friction in various applications. We also explore the evolving landscape of tribology, particularly the shift towards electric vehicles and the implications for future research. Join us for this enlightening conversation as we uncover the intricacies of friction and its crucial role in engineering advancements.
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22min
September 25, 2025 Dr Peter Lee: Building Tribology at Scale, Part 2
In the second half of our conversation with Dr Peter Lee we explore how he built and grew the tribology group at Southwest Research Institute into one of the world’s most dynamic centres for applied research. Peter shares the testing philosophy that guides their work the importance of careful hiring and mentoring and why flexibility and teamwork with clients are central to their success.
We also look ahead at the changing landscape of tribology from the rise of rheology and new applications beyond automotive to challenges in EVs hydrogen and emerging fuels. Peter reflects on the role of AI and big data in shaping the future of the field and why tribology will always remain essential across industries.
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35min
September 11, 2025 Dr Peter Lee: My Journey into Tribology, Part 1
In this first part of our conversation with Dr Peter Lee, Chief Tribologist at Southwest Research Institute, we explore the unconventional path that led him from working as a motor mechanic to establishing himself as a leading tribologist. Peter shares how a tribology module at Leeds set him on a new course, how his PhD in lubricant degradation shaped his research interests, and how securing a prestigious Royal Academy of Engineering Fellowship broadened his career. He also reflects on the role of mentoring early in his journey, both receiving it and beginning to offer it to others.
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34min
August 14, 2025 Dr James Ewen & Filimon Kaliafetis: Digital Twins
In this episode of TribologyTalks, we dive into the fascinating world of digital twins in tribology with experts James Ewen and Filimonas Karyfetis. We explore the concept of digital twins as virtual replicas of physical entities, discussing their various levels of integration—from basic digital models to advanced systems that enable real-time control and analysis. Filimonas shares insights on utilizing sensor data to enhance our understanding of physical systems, while James discusses the potential applications in predicting maintenance needs for machinery. Together, they highlight the balance between accuracy and speed in simulations, envisioning a future where digital twins revolutionize tribological research and applications. Join us for an enlightening conversation that bridges theoretical concepts with practical implications in the field.
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38min
July 24, 2025 Dr James Ewen: Molecular Simulations Shaping Tribology - Part 1
What if you could predict how a lubricant performs before it’s even made?
Season 2 of Tribology Talks starts with a fresh twist as PCS R&D team members Ben Wainwright and Rory McAllister take over the mic to host an unmissable conversation with Dr James Ewen, Royal Academy of Engineering Research Fellow at Imperial College London. James reveals how molecular simulations are transforming tribology, from uncovering nanoscale behaviour to solving real-world challenges in industries as diverse as automotive, energy, and even personal care. Along the way, he shares his journey from Shell to Imperial and why this research is shaping a more sustainable future.
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30min
July 24, 2025 Dr James Ewen: Molecular Simulations Shaping Tribology - Part 1
In this episode of TribologyTalks, I’m thrilled to kick off Season 2 with our special guest, Dr. James Ewen, a Royal Academy of Engineering Research Fellow at Imperial College London. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of molecular simulations and their crucial role in understanding lubricant behavior at the nanoscale. Dr. Ewen shares insights from his academic journey, including his experiences with Shell and his work on innovative lubricant formulations. We’ll discuss the intersection of fundamental research and real-world applications, particularly in industries like hair care, where tribology plays an unexpected yet vital role. Tune in to discover how advances in computational power and collaborative research are shaping the future of tribology.
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30min
May 29, 2025 Dr Rai Notay: Charged Up and Fully Restored
In Part 2, Dr Rai Notay is back to break down the real-world tribology challenges facing electric vehicles, from bearing durability and low-viscosity fluids to the complex impact of stray currents. Then we head into the garage as Rai shares how he rebuilt a classic Mini from the ground up, blending vintage charm with modern engineering. It’s a hands-on story of applied tribology, where lab knowledge meets personal project in the most satisfying way.
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31min

FAQs about TribologyTalks:

How many episodes does TribologyTalks have?

The podcast currently has 28 episodes available.