Materials and surface treatments potentially suitable for unlubricated and elevated temperature rolling bearings have been compared, wear resistance being assessed by loss of weight under unlubricated conditions. Tungsten carbide was superior to other materials tested. Grain size of the tungsten carbide and the amount of matrix material can have a considerable effect on performance. Use of solid film lubricants can eliminate or reduce wear. Soft nitriding can also be beneficial.
Metallurgical investigations of some selected failed specimens have been carried out.
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