Application of Crystal-Orientated Lead Alloy Electrodeposits to the Overlay of Bearings, and Studies on Increasing Plane Bearing Performance

The orientation of electrodeposited Pb alloy crystal was related to the morphology of the deposits, and the orientated electrodeposits of a Pb alloy mainly consisting of the (h00) plane have exhibited a good wetness characteristic for lubricant oil.

As a result, the orientated electrodeposits of this Pb alloy used in the overlay of bearings has an anti-seizure parameter (PV) at least 30% higher than that of conventional deposits in terms of the sliding characteristic.

The sintered lead-bronze alloy used as the bearing's lining material offers good fatigue strength, which was made possible by adopting a newly developed Cu-Sn alloy matrix and reducing the amount and grain size of the Pb phase.

Studies on plane bearings of high performance have clarified through bearing characteristic and engine firing tests that combining the orientated Pb alloy overlay and strengthening the lining increases the anti-seizure property and improves durability with regard to bearing fatigue and wear.