Overview of Oil-Impregnated Bearings
Oil-impregnated bearings are a special type of bearing that utilizes the porous structure of the bearing material or the affinity between the lubricant and the material. Before installation, the bearing is impregnated with lubricating oil, allowing it to function without the need for additional lubrication over a long period. This makes them ideal for applications where regular maintenance is difficult or impractical.
During non-operational periods, the lubricating oil may seep out from the pores of the bearing. However, when the bearing is in operation, the friction caused by shaft rotation generates heat, which leads to thermal expansion of the bearing shell. This reduces the porosity, preventing the oil from escaping. When the bearing cools down, the pores return to their original state, and the lubricating oil is drawn back into the material, ensuring continuous lubrication.
Although oil-impregnated bearings can form a complete oil film, they typically operate under a mixed lubrication condition, where both fluid and boundary friction occur. This means that the performance of these bearings depends on the quality of the material and the consistency of the lubrication process.
Common materials used for oil-impregnated bearings include wood, sintered cast iron, cast copper alloys, and powder metallurgy materials. These materials have high affinity with lubricants, allowing them to absorb and retain oil effectively. In modern applications, polymer-based materials such as phenolic resins are also widely used due to their excellent wear resistance and self-lubricating properties.
Oil-impregnated bearings are commonly used in low-speed, low-load applications where continuous lubrication is not feasible. They are often found in machinery, automotive components, and industrial equipment where reliability and minimal maintenance are key requirements.
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