Analysis of the Frequency, Causes and Consequences of a Common Quality Problem in the Babbit Coating of Trimetal Journal Bearings

This paper investigates the frequency of surface irregularities in electrolytic babbit deposits applied in commercially available trimetal journal bearings. It will be indicated by means of testing on an Underwood rig that the presence of irregular deposits (nodules) has a negative influence on the velocity of wear in the copper-lead bronze used as the bearing base material. The frequency of the presence of nodules in commercial products will be analyzed and its causes explained by means of a quantitative metallographical study on products retired from the various stations of an industrial electroplating line.