Tribological properties of FeS/Cu-Bi copper-based bearing materials fabricated by mechanical alloying

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to fabricate a FeS/Cu-Bi copper-based lead-free bearing material to maintain good friction-reducing and anti-adhesive properties under boundary lubrication conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The materials were fabricated by mechanical alloying and powder metallurgy and tested under dry friction conditions using HDM-20 wear tester.

Findings

The results show that mechanical alloying can improve the antifriction and wear resistance of the materials. The 6 per cent FeS and 6 per cent Bi in the copper-based bearing materials fabricated by mechanical alloying have a better synergism which contributes to the friction and wear properties of copper matrix.

Originality/value

This new approach solves the problems of Bi and FeS mutual segmentation, mutual agglomeration and poor interface bonding.

Citation

Yin, Y., Li, R., Zhang, G., Zhang, K., Ding, S. and Chen, Q. (2019), "Tribological properties of FeS/Cu-Bi copper-based bearing materials fabricated by mechanical alloying", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 71 No. 10, pp. 1152-1157. https://doi.org/10.1108/ILT-03-2019-0106