Theoretical Determination of the Minimum Thickness of a Polymer Layer Providing Ensured Protection of a Shaft–Bearing Joint from Fretting Corrosion

Fretting corrosion in a shaft–bearing joint has been investigated. The effect of the elastic characteristics of the polymer material and surface roughness of the shaft and bearing on the magnitude of the minimum possible thickness of the polymer layer at which it would be assured of retaining strength characteristics has been theoretically studied. A design equation for this magnitude has been derived. The minimum thickness of the polymer layer in the shaft–bearing joint for particular conditions (surface roughness, elasticity modulus, and maximum load) has been determined.