Lubrication of space shuttle main engine turbopump bearings

摘要

From the test data, it can be seen that the new cage design increased test times. This is attributed to several things. First is the absence of fiberglass fibers that generate friction and heat. This heat can lead to internal geometry changes that increases internal contact stresses, causing failure by wear and not fatigue. Secondly, a thin film of bronze and PTFE is transferred to the ball and races. This film acts as a soft metal lubricant to keep the rolling surfaces separated. As the bearing rotates, this film is replenished.