Abstract: To build a finite element calculation and analysis model of fretting wear of coated zirconium alloy cladding and predict the maximum wear depth under tangential working conditions，the finite element model of coated zirconium alloy cladding-dimple contact system is established based on the geometrical characteristics of cladding-lattice.The Archard wear model is employed to calculate the wear amount，and the wear process is achieved through the integration of ABAQUS ALE technology and the UMESHMOTION subroutine.The wear coefficient and its relationship with wear cycle are analyzed through fretting wear testing，and a fitted function is derived to describe the relationship.Our results obtained from the finite element analysis show the maximum wear depth and its corresponding position are in agreement with the test results.Our study demonstrates the established model may be employed to predict the maximum depth of tangential fretting wear on coated zirconium alloy cladding.