Iron and Bronze Powdered Based Materials for Bearings with Surface Modified with Solid Lubricant Nanoparticles

In the recent years, a growth of demand for various types of self-lubricating elements of machines has been observed. A lot of parts are manufactured with the use of a powder metallurgy method. The Metal Forming Institute (INOP) in Poznan developed a modern technology, designed and made a tool for compaction of powdered parts with complex shapes and high density. The technology is being realised with a large scale equipment, which performs the forging and sizing of the sintered performs. The present work describes development of manufacturing technology and determination of mechanical and tribological properties of nanocomposites for self-lubricating bearings with a very low friction coefficient. It is envisaged to use particulate materials which consist of nano-and microparticles of solid lubricant. The study conducted aims at definition of a relationship between the microstructure and tribological properties of materials modified with solid lubricant MoS2 nanoparticles dispersed in a technological oil. INOP's technology of nanoparticles manufacturing by RCT method (Rolling Cleavage Technology) results in that top layer of the porous bearing is modified with the nanoparticles. These layers are characterised by a low friction coefficient and considerably longer period of use. It should be noted that the stainless steel and bronze powders materials used have a good corrosion resistance. Production of the sintered bearings will disseminate the market especially in automotive and aircraft industries.