Wear is one of the most fundamental topics in tribology and adhesive wear is argued as the least avoidable wear type. Numerical techniques have allowed advances in more realistic simulations of adhesive wear mechanisms and promoted our understanding of it. This paper reviews the classic work on wear modeling by Archard and Rabinowicz, followed by a comprehensive summary of the adhesive wear numerical models and techniques based on physical parameters. The studies on wear mechanisms at the asperity level and rough surfaces are separately presented. Different models and their key findings are presented according to the method type. The advantages and deficiencies of these models are stated and future work, such as considering more realistic geometries and material properties for adhesive wear modeling, is suggested.

Current-carrying friction and wear in contact components are key issues in modern electromechanical systems such as slip rings, electrical connectors, motors, and pantographs, directly influencing their efficiency, reliability, and lifespan. Due to the limitations of experimental methods under some extreme conditions, computational simulations have become essential for studying current-carrying friction and wear in such scenarios. This paper presents a comprehensive review of theoretical modeling and numerical simulation methods for current-carrying friction and wear. It begins with discussions of approaches to solve the electrical contact resistance (ECR), a critical parameter that governs current-carrying friction and wear behaviors. Then, it delves into various modeling strategies for current-carrying friction, with an emphasis on the coupled effects of thermal, mechanical, electrical, and magnetic fields. Finally, the review addresses modeling techniques for current-carrying wear, encompassing mechanical wear and arc erosion. By summarizing existing research, this paper identifies key advancements, highlights existing challenges, and outlines future directions, advocating for the development of efficient, universal, and industry-oriented tools that can seamlessly bridge the gap between theoretical modeling and practical applications.