Influence of temperature on deva.metal^®

Deva.metal® is a group of self-lubricating sintered bearings based on bronze, steel or nickel. Graphite is used as the most common solid lubricant, but others such as molybdenum disulfide are also used. The solid lubricant is embedded in the metal matrix in different sizes, quantities and distributions. These different bearing materials can be used up to a temperature of 350°C (bronze) and 800°C (steel).

The aim of this study is to show the COF and wear at different temperatures and to determine the effects between the quantity, size and distribution of the embedded lubricant. The tests are carried out on a tribometer (Tribolab-UMT from Bruker) as a pin-to-disc setup. The results of the tribometer are converted into correction curves to be taken into account when determining wear and service life for applications based on results on larger test benches. For most materials, wear and COF increase with increasing temperature. To carry out a reliable service life estimation. this information must be taken into account.