Damage evolution and contact surfaces analysis of high-loaded oscillating hybrid bearings

High-loaded oscillating bearings are used in industrial applications such as actuators, wind turbines, aircraft, robots, and assembly line equipment. These bearings are subjected to extremely high local contact pressures with relatively low oscillation speeds. This work deals with the role of the materials chosen for the rolling elements of such bearings, with a particular focus on silicon nitride (ceramic) balls in hybrid bearings. The degradation processes for high-loaded oscillating hybrid bearings are analyzed step-by-step, highlighting in particular the nucleation and evolution of damage on the most loaded balls and on the inner ring raceway. A comparison with the wear processes in steel-on-steel bearings is also provided. •Degradation scenario of oscillating hybrid ball bearing under high load and oscillating motion conditions.•Degradation scenario reconstruction step by step.•Comparison between the steel/steel bearings and the hybrid bearings under the same loading and motion conditions.•Experimental tests and surface analysis to clarify the role of the ceramic balls material.