Field Evaluation of Self-Lubricated Mechanical Components for Civil Works Navigation Structures

摘要

It is operationally and environmentally desirable to replace greased bronze bushings used in navigation lock machinery with self- lubricating bushings. Bronze bushings must be greased manually or with automatic lubricating machines. Grease lines are subject to damage from ice and debris. If the grease line breaks, the lubricating system fails, which may lead to component failure and delays in navigation. Introduction of grease into the riverine environment is also a concern. The Corps of Engineers has been using self-lubricating bushings in navigation locks for the past 20 years. The purpose of this study was to evaluate mechanical properties and durability of emerging advanced self-lubricating bushing/bearing materials in the laboratory and under field conditions, and to provide additional knowledge, needed guidelines, and standard specifications for the proper selection and use of self-lubricating bushing materials for locks based on local environmental conditions and applications. The results of accelerated testing of quarter- scale model self-lubricating pintle bushings in simulated river are also reported.