TribologyTalks

In this episode of TribologyTalks, I sit down with Dr. Boumediene Boudjelida, our new global head of sales at PCS Instruments, to explore his journey from physics to tribology and discuss the exciting developments on the horizon for our company. We delve into Boumédiène's insights on the evolving landscape of tribology, including emerging trends in laboratory testing and the strategic importance of expanding our presence in the US market. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on how PCS Instruments plans to address customer needs and adapt to the latest industry advancements. Join us as we uncover the potential of tribology and the impact it can have across various applications.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Joseph Shore and Jie Zhang from the Imperial College Tribology Group, we move from research backgrounds into the challenge of designing meaningful tribology tests.

Joined by PCS Instruments’ Ben Wainwright, Joe and Jie discuss what makes a good test, how fundamental contacts can help us understand real applications and why modelling, assumptions and experimental data all need to work together.

The episode also looks ahead to future tribology challenges, from EV drivetrains and high-speed testing to hydrogen, ammonia, robotics and more sustainable lubrication.

In this episode of Tribology Talks, PCS Instruments Ben is joined by Joeseph Shore and Jie Zhang from the Imperial College Tribology Group for the first part of their conversation.

They begin by sharing how they first became interested in tribology, from early curiosity about mechanical engineering to research projects at Imperial College London. The discussion then moves into their current work, including EV drivetrain efficiency, high-speed bearing reliability, lubricant behaviour in inert gas environments, and the role of hydrogen and ammonia in future transport systems.

Together, they explore the challenge of connecting benchtop testing with real-world applications, and why understanding the wider operating environment is so important in modern tribology.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.