AbstractReliable laboratory simulation of the tribological conditions that lubricated sliding bearings face in the field requires the use of computer assisted test procedures. The example of lubricated plastic bearings given here illustrates the use of relational database systems combined with automated data analysis, and shows its relevance for practical applications.To predict the functioning of lubricated platic bearings, a multiple of test procedures and laboratory methods are necessary due to the large variety of synthetic lubricants and the multiple of plastics. Each test procedure generates a considerable amount of individual data. From these data, the information relevant for each particular application must be extracted. This procedure can be speeded up by using a database, and indeed some of it is only possible with the use of a database. This database acts as the central place for data collection. By using specific commands, with actual parameters acting as filters, the necessary information can be retrieved. The efficiency of tribological testing and its immediate relevance for the field is thereby greatly enhanced.