Tribological Performance of Two Oilless Sintered-Metal Bearings for the Geared Motor in a Refrigerator

Abstract

The tribological performances of two types of oilless sintered-metal bearings with varying loads were investigated. One is the Cu-based bearing and the other is Fe-based bearing. The frictional forces of the bearings were measured using the bearing tester. By measuring the change of weight before and after sliding tests, the oil losses of the bearings were surveyed. Also, PV curves, which could be used to predict the life of the oilless bearing, were plotted. By observing the roundness, the cylindericity and the images of scanning electron microscopy of bearings before and after sliding tests, the tribological characteristics of the bearings were evaluated. It was found that Fe-based bearing show lower friction, more oil loss, less wear and longer life than Cu-based bearing.