Comparative Wear and Friction Analysis of Sliding Surface Materials for Hydrostatic Bearing under Oil Supply Failure Conditions

Abstract

Hydrostatic bearings are commonly used in high-precision applications due to their excellent performance across a wide range of sizes, from millimeters to tens of meters. However, their operation is dependent on a continuous external supply. If this supply fails or the pad alignment is improper, collisions or damage to sliding surfaces can occur, compromising machine precision or even causing malfunction. This study presents an experimental assessment of selected material combinations for sliding surfaces to minimize damage in large-scale hydrostatic bearings under critical conditions. The research aims to identify the most suitable material combinations that ensure a reliable and efficient operation of hydrostatic bearings, even in the case of oil supply failure or pad misalignment. The experimental methodology focuses on the influence of material properties on friction and wear. According to the results, the most suitable materials to combine with structural steel are tin, polytetrafluoroethylene, and leaded compositions. On the other hand, aluminum bronze, structural steel, and galvanized steel are the least suitable combinations. These findings offer valuable insights into selecting the most appropriate conformal sliding surface material combination for large-scale hydrostatic bearings based on multiple criteria, which can contribute to improved safety and durability.