Book excerpt: Volume III extends this handbook series to cover new developments and topics in tribology that have occurred during the past decade. It includes in-depth discussions on revolutionary magnetic bearings used in demanding applications in compressors, high-speed spindles, and aerospace equipment. Extensive coverage is given to tribology developments in office machines and in magnetic storage systems for computers. Monitoring sensors are addressed in the first chapter, followed by chapters on specific monitoring techniques for automobiles, diesels, and rotating machines. One chapter is devoted to procedures used for tracking the remaining life of lubricants. Synthetic lubricants are discussed by outstanding specialists in this rapidly developing field. Synthetics are increasingly important in widely diverse areas, including compressors using the new ozone-layer-friendly refrigerants and a variety of extreme-temperature and environmentally-sensitive applications. Water- and gas-lubricated bearings are given similar attention. The contributors also develop a new, unified coverage for fatigue life of ball and roller bearings; for design and application of porous metal bearings; for self-contained lubrication, involving oil rings, disks, and wicks; and for plastic bearings. Each of these classes of bearings are used by the millions daily throughout industry. The three-volume handbook is an essential reference to tribologists and lubrication, mechanical, and automotive engineers. It is invaluable to lubricant suppliers; bearing companies; those working in the aerospace industry; and anyone concerned with machine design, machinery wear, and maintenance.