Tribological behavior of PEEK reinforced with PTFE, carbon fiber, and graphite composite suitable for deep groove ball bearing applications

Abstract

The utilisation of polymer in the bearing application has become an alternative to metal-based bearings. The proposed work explores the feasibility of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) composites for ball-bearing applications. The friction and wear performance of PEEK composites has been evaluated through a ball-on-disc test. Where the tribological performance has been thoroughly evaluated. The present study utilizes unfilled PEEK and PEEK reinforced with 10% carbon fiber and 20% solid lubricant (10% polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and 10% graphite). The composite materials were subjected to various loads and speeds that simulate the operational conditions experienced in polymer bearings. The friction coefficients were thoroughly monitored during the testing, and the wear rates were calculated. Moreover, the wear track has been analysed through confocal and scanning electron microscopy.