Analysis of Tribological Properties of Composite Materials for the Production Designing of Bearing Cage

摘要

Some types of bearings, which are used for specific applications of rolling bearings, allow the use of composite materials for cages. Generally, the cages are loaded only with small forces in rolling bearings, but at higher speeds or in disturbed rolling of bodies, the force acting on the cage can significantly increase. In these cases for increasing of elasticity of cages made from technical plastic are preferred, because they are well resistant to bearing lubricants. To improve the dimensional stability of these materials, they are reinforced with glass, carbon fibers, or glass microspheres, and alike. The cages made of composite materials are characterized by their low weight, high elasticity, and very good sliding properties. This paper presents the results of experimental research on the tribological properties of selected composite materials tested in different environments and their mutual comparison. Experimental measurements were realized on the experimental device linear microtribometer working on the principle of method ball on plane. This method according to the standard ISO 7148-2 is standard method for tribological properties testing. The structure analysis of experimental samples was performed because of understanding of potential structure influence on material properties. The aim of experiments was to acquire the knowledge that can be used in designing materials for bearing cages.