Review of Journal Bearing Materials and Current Trends

Abstract

In the past few years, the need for low-cost, high-performance materials is increasing. Design engineers and researchers are replacing the metals and alloys with advanced materials. Journal bearings are integral parts of machines, engines running to serve the purpose. They play a significant vital role in the performance, efficiency, minimizing the cost of operation, enhancing the durability and reliability of the system. Materials used for these moving elements have undergone tremendous change since the invention of Tin Babbitt. In this paper, a critical review of Journal bearing materials, right from the old-age Babbitt to advanced materials in use till date is presented. Metallurgical aspects and mechanical behavior of successful, widely used bearing materials along with their micro and nanocomposite alternatives are discussed. Tin Babbitt is an ideal material for journal bearing applications. So, it is taken as reference for comparing the quality of other bearing materials.