Dry Lubrication of High Temperature Silicon Nitride Rolling Contacts

摘要

Successful solid lubrication of silicon nitride has been demonstrated at high temperature. Rolling contact four ball tests were used to simulated bearing operation. Solid lubrication films were transferred to the silicon nitride balls from graphite cages. Long term tests at a 1000 F (538 C) produced very low silicon nitride wear rates. Optimum performance was achieved using a cage designed by SKF Industries, Inc. and manufactured from Pure Carbon Co. P2003 graphite. Other solid lubricant systems were evaluated, but were not as effective as the P2003 graphite transfer film lubrication in preventing silicon nitride wear. Favorable four ball test results indicate feasibility of silicon nitride bearings for high temperature turbine applications. (Author)