 ##  [Contact Fatigue](/contact-fatigue) 

  ##  [Contact Fatigue](https://engineering.quantumdictionary.io/contact-fatigue-0) 

  
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**Engineering &amp; Applied Technologies Dictionary**

 
Definition

Progressive material degradation and crack initiation beneath contacting surfaces subjected to repeated cyclic contact stresses (commonly Hertzian), producing subsurface microcracks, pitting and eventual loss of load‑carrying surface in gears, bearings and cams.