Effect of Operating Conditions on the Tribological Behavior of Zn-30Al-3Cu Bearing Alloy

To determine the relationships between operating conditions and tribological properties of Zn-30Al-3Cu alloy, its wear characteristics were investigated at wide ranges of oil flow rate, pressure and sliding velocity using a block-on-disk type test apparatus. The results are compared to those of SAE 660 leaded bearing bronze. Wear loss of these materials increased with sliding distance, pressure and sliding velocity, but decreased slightly with oil flow rate. The relationships between operating conditions and lubricated wear properties of Zn-30Al-3Cu alloy were determined by nonlinear regression analysis of the experimental data. Lubricated wear behavior of the zinc-based alloy was discussed in terms its microstructure and mechanical properties, and test conditions.