Surface Interactions and Lubrication Response of Silicon Nitride Bearing Elements

Abstract

The report summarizes results of a fundamental investigation of the suitability of silicon nitride as a rolling bearing material with emphasis on its interactive behavior with lubricating fluids. The need for a light-weight bearing material in critical high-speed turbine applications is discussed and the potential benefits of silicon nitride in particular are reviewed. The wettability characteristics of six lubricants on a silicon nitride surface were measured to determine which lubricants are apt to be successful with silicon nitride bearing components in permitting the replenishment of lubricant onto the rolled-over tracks which is vital for the maintenance of an elastohydrodynamic (EHD) film and the consequent prevention of surface initiated fatigue.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 01, 1974
Accession Number
AD0777087

Entities

People

  • H. Dalal
  • J. I. Mccool
  • O. G. Gustafsson
  • Y. P. Chiu

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abrasives
  • Bearings
  • Ceramic Materials
  • Chemical Synthesis
  • Chemistry
  • Electron Microscopes
  • Fatigue Life
  • Finishes
  • Friction
  • Manufacturing
  • Mechanical Working
  • Mechanics
  • Modulus Of Elasticity
  • Optical Properties
  • Silicon Carbide
  • Surface Roughness
  • Turbines

Fields of Study

  • Engineering

Readers

  • Systems Analysis and Design
  • Tribology (the study of the boundary interaction between sliding surfaces, lubrication, wear and friction).