Essential of bearing in materials engineering

Abstract

Essentials of bearing have been to maintain lubricant film to prevent metal to metal contact and hence local welding of two surfaces. Tribological and mechanical properties have improved by powder metallurgy route of bearing fabrications. Alloyed non-ferrous plane bearings have better friction coefficients than pure metals. Betterment has appeared in babbit/ bronze particulate reinforced composites. Ni addition has improved performances of graphite-lead free tin bronze composite layers on surface of steel sheets required for bimetallic bearings. Chemically modified rapeseed oil with nano CuO have showed lowest friction coefficient in journal bearing material upon test by pin on disc wear tester. Polymer-based composite slide bearings have replaced bronze in some case. Nylon bearings have showed better wear resistance with water by addition of graphite. Environmentally acceptable lubricant, e.g. Polyhydric alcohols have replaced water in hydropower applications. Sucrose concentration has been suitable for aerostatic porous ceramic bearings. Key words Rolling bearings, Plane bearings, Seizure, Powder metallurgy, Cast nonferrous bearing, MMC bush bearings, Bimetal bearing, Tribology, Journal bearing, Polymer composite, Self lubricated bearings, Ceramic matrix, Aerostatic porous bearings.