Observation of Wear on PEEK-PTFE Hybrid Radial Bearings

Abstract

In this paper, the wear performance of hybrid radial bearing (PEEK-PTFE and alumina ball) was investigated. For effective operation of equipment in clean energy facilities environment, the PEEK-PTFE hybrid bearings was developed. Radial PEEK-PTFE hybrid bearings were produced by machining and their rolling contact fatigue (RCF) behavior under non-lubricated condition was carried out. PEEK accumulation layer with PTFE and graphite appeared on the bearing's inner ring under 600-3000 rpm rotation speed. Due to the self-lubrication of PEEK layer, the wear loss of hybrid bearing cycles was lower than in the case of neat PEEK radial bearing. Moreover, It was found that the thin PEEK layer protected the raceway from the friction heat and wear.