Experimental study on adaptability of full ceramic ball bearings under extreme conditions of cryogenics and heavy loads

Full ceramic ball bearings are widely used in space technology and other cryocooling conditions due to a series of advantages. In order to verify the cryogenic adaptability of full ceramic ball bearings, experimental studies on silicon nitride (Si3N4) full ceramic ball bearings under extreme conditions are carried out, the tribological behavior and vibration characteristics are analyzed. The results show that self-lubricating film will be formed in the bearing, becoming lubricating medium, but the price is excessive wear on cage, indicating that Si3N4 rings and balls have good adaptability to extreme conditions, while the cage is a weak link, and prone to failure damage. The results are of reference value for the application of full ceramic ball bearings under extreme conditions. [Display omitted] •Adaptability of Si3N4 full ceramic ball bearing under extreme conditions was experimentally verified.•The tribological behavior and vibration characteristics under extreme conditions were analyzed.•The mechanism of cage lubrication under extreme conditions was described.•The weak link of full ceramic ball bearing under extreme working conditions was revealed.•Factors needed to be considered to avoid short-term failures under extreme conditions were discussed.