Theoretical Simulation of Temperature Elevations in a Joint Wear Simulator During Rotations

Artificial joints are the most successful long-term treatment for arthritis. Artificial joints have improved the quality of life for millions of patients; however, one of their major limitations is that failure of the device requires a surgical revision. A wear simulator is a valuable tool for testing the long term wear behavior of artificial joints and developing optimal designs before they are implanted in clinical settings. One of the issues related to artificial joint wear is potential temperature elevations caused by friction between articulating components, which affects not only the lubricant in-between, but also induces heat conduction through the components of the simulator. It has been suggested that the temperature elevations, if sufficient, may roughen the component interface, therefore leading to increases in wear. ^1–2