Increased Performance of Hybrid Bearings with Silicon Nitride Balls

Abstract

An experimental study on the performance of hybrid bearings in a lubrication environment where the oil contains metallic particles, such as found in industrial gearboxes and transmissions is conducted. Improvements in the wear resistance performance of hybrid bearings are reported and compared with the performance achieved by conventional steel bearings. The performance merits of hybrid bearings under commonly used grease lubrication conditions operating at high speed and temperature is also described. The mechanisms and advantages gained by adopting hybrid rolling-element bearings as a means of extending the service life of mechanical systems or machines operating in highly demanding environmental conditions are discussed.