The Selection of Bearing Materials
Bearings are essential components of mechanical devices, used to support load, reduce frictional losses, and support the transmission of torque and rotational motion. Bearing selection for machinery applications is based on experience, intuition, and so on, but the most important factor is to choose the right bearing material.
With hundreds of varieties of bearing materials available on the market, how do you select the right bearing material? This article will introduce some of the common points to be considered when selecting bearing materials.
First, it is necessary to consider the working environment of the bearing. It is important to select a bearing material that is resistant to corrosion and offers good wear resistance. These material properties will vary from bearing type to type, so it is important to choose a material that is suited for the task at hand.
Bearing materials can also be chosen based on load capacity. Different load capacities will dictate the material needed for the bearing. Generally, for large loads, it is better to choose stronger materials such as alloy steels, whereas for smaller loads, softer materials such as bronze are often favoured.
The thermal properties of the bearing material should also be taken into consideration. This is especially important if the bearing will be exposed to extreme temperatures, such as in the case of gears and other high-speed machinery. The material should be able to withstand the heat of the environment, as well as the shock loads created by bearing movement.
Finally, the cost of the bearing material should be taken into account. Typically, more expensive materials tend to perform better due to their higher durability and resistance to wear, but they may not always be the most affordable option.
By taking all of the above points into consideration, the right bearing material can be chosen, ensuring that the bearing performs as it should, and lasts for many years to come. When selecting bearing materials, it is important to weigh up the options, considering all aspects of the bearing, before making a final decision.
