Cavitation Testing of Journal Bearings Utilizing a New Cavitation Test machine

Today's modern engines are being used in a myriad of applications. Sophisticated, state of the art engines and engine systems are now commonplace. Smaller production engines are capable of producing more power than ever before; large engines are run more efficiently. With the technological advancements and sophistication of today's engines and engine systems, high load components such as connecting rod and main engine bearings are susceptible to many types of bearing distress. One type of bearing distress is cavitation damage, better known as cavitation erosion. Recognizing the importance in determining the causes as well as preventing the occurrence of bearing distress, Federal-Mogul has developed a cavitation test machine to assist in addressing the causes and effects of cavitation erosion. This machine, developed in-house by technical center personnel, is being used to evaluate the effects of cavitation on bearing materials as well as their resistance to cavitation erosion. A description of the cavitation test machine, its operation and various test results are included in this paper.