A new type of tribological apparatus is described for the assessment of the lubricating properties of fluids and bearing materials when operating under conformal conditions in the metahydrodynamic régime as in fluid power devices. Based on the pin and disc type apparatus, three pins are used which are undercut at their leading edges. The hydrodynamic wedge thus formed elastohydrodynamically during operation ensures consistent hydrodynamic lift between tests so that the results of tests are not rendered unequivocal because of variations in hydrodynamic action between tests. The amount of hydrodynamic lift can be easily varied to suit different test requirements by altering the dimensions of the cantilevers. Test methods are described.