AlSn10Ni2MnCu - A New High Strength Al-Bearing Material

The objectives for the development of a new high strength aluminium based bearing material are explained. To satisfy these objectives a new material was developed and the composition and structure of this material are described.

In the initial phase of development the material successfully passed different internal tests, which are described in the article. However, tests by engine manufacturers indicated a tendency to seizure problems. To study this performance characteristic a test procedure was developed, which allowed a better evaluation of the seizure properties.

With use of this test procedure, the composition of the new material and the bearing production process were able to be modified such that resistance to seizure was significantly increased. The composition and the structure of this new material, AlSn10Ni2MnCu, is described and the manufacturing process briefly explained.