Design/methodology/approach A predictive model to approximate the number of sand particles within the pin-on-disc contact surface is proposed. The efficacy of the model is validated through experimental method, which replicates a sand environment with two distinct particle deposition rates. Dry sliding friction experiments are also conducted using 45 carbon steel and H90 brass pins against GCr15 bearing steel discs. Findings When at high particle deposition rate [6.89 × 10–5 g/(s·mm2)], the contact surfaces are separated by particles, resulting in an indirect metal contact. While at low deposition rate [6.08 × 10–8 g/(s·mm2)], there is an alternating occurrence of direct and indirect metal contacts. In sand environment, the specific wear rate of 45 and H90 decreases by 50% and 33%, respectively, compared to non-sand environment when the applied load is 2.45 N. However, it is only 0.18% for 45 but remains significant at 25% for H90 at load of 9.8 N. Originality/value The predictive model and experimental method used in this paper are helpful for understanding the interaction between particles and sliding surfaces, thereby providing a solid foundation for material selection and load optimization of friction pairs influenced by sand-dust environments. Peer review The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-05-2024-0155/