The bearing materials can be classified into several types based on their composition and application. The main categories include:
1. Metal bearing materials:
Chromium steel (52100, GCr15) - The most common type is for rolling bearings, with high hardness and good wear resistance.
Stainless steel (440C, 304, 316, etc.) - Corrosion-resistant, used in marine and food industries.
Carbon steel - Low cost, used for low-load applications.
Tool steel - High strength, used in extreme load conditions.
Bronze bearings - Good wear resistance and self-lubrication, often used for bushings.
Copper bearings - Similar to bronze, but with slightly lower strength.
Babbitt alloy (white metal) - Soft metal, used for sliding bearings in engines and turbines.
2. Non-metallic bearing materials
Ceramics (zirconia, silicon nitride, alumina) - High temperature resistant, non-magnetic, used in high-speed applications.
Polymers/plastics (PTFE, nylon, PEEK, UHMWPE, etc.) - Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, self-lubricating, used in medical and food applications.
Carbon/graphite bearings - Self-lubricating, used in extreme temperature and chemical environments.
