The history and future of aircraft turbine engine bearing steels

摘要

The history of aircraft turbvine engine bearings is one of great improvements in reliability and performance. Progress in steel has followed two parallel paths. One is in steel composition from low alloys to high speed, fracture tough, and corrosion resistant compositions. The other is in steel quality, from electric furnace to vacuum and remelting methods, and forging and inspection techniques to prevent stress raising flaws. In amy ways the developments for turbine engines have led the way for the bearing industry. In this paper the history and future will be reviewed with emphasis on the important lessons we have learned that cna be applied whereever rolling contact bearings are used.