Tribological properties of journal bearings manufactured from particle reinforced Al composites

In this study, journal bearings were manufactured from composite structures by casting method reinforcing 3% (Al2O3 and SiC) and (3% Al2O3 + 3% SiC) into pure Al. Tribological properties of these bearings were investigated by wear experiments at lubricated conditions under 20 N load and 1500 rpm on the radial journal bearing wear test rig. Effects of these composites on wear properties were investigated. Consequently, tribological properties of these particle reinforced composite bearings have significantly improved. In addition, particle reinforced Al composites were used to produce journal bearing.