Performance and Use of Polymer Plan Bearings in Transmission Design Web Seminar RePlay

As part of a broad transmission design philosophy, the understanding and application of tribological systems is critical. The number of interacting surfaces within a modern automotive transmission continues to increase, while the demands on the system continue to press the limits of traditional technologies. The understanding of each surface interaction within the greater system becomes increasingly important as each component is asked to do more to benefit the overall system.

This short course will present the tribological performance of polymeric plain bearings as related to transmission applications. It will deal with the various wear and damage mechanisms that can occur with a polymer bearing in transmissions. The damage mechanisms discussed will include adhesion, abrasion, fatigue and erosion. A brief discussion of relevant lubrication states, boundary lubrication and fluid film formation, will also be included.

The course will also address specific mechanical design issues associated with using polymer plain bearings within the transmission.

• Describe damage mechanisms of polymer plain bearings and washers in transmissions, including:
  • Adhesion and adhesive friction and wear
  • Abrasion and abrasive wear
  • Fatigue and fatigue wear
  • Cavitation erosion
• Cite differences in lubrication states as they relate to the performance of polymer plain bearings and washers, including boundary and fluid film lubrication
• Identify material solutions to overcome the variety of damage mechanisms
• Discuss mechanical design issues
• Describe the uses of plain bearing surfaces within the transmission and related componentry