Why are babbit alloys used for bearing material?a)They have excellent ...
Ans. (a) A tin base alloy containing 88% tin, 8% antimony and 4% copper is called babbit metal. It is a soft material with a low coefficient of friction and has little strength. It is the most common bearing metal used with cast iron boxes where the bearings are subjected to high pressure and load. A babbit overlay to enhance surface conformability and corrosion resistance, makes an excellent bearing.
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Why are babbit alloys used for bearing material?a)They have excellent ...
Babbit alloys are commonly used for bearing materials due to their excellent embeddability. Embeddability refers to the ability of the bearing material to embed and retain foreign particles such as dirt, debris, or other contaminants that may enter the bearing system. This is crucial for maintaining the smooth operation and longevity of the bearing.
Babbit alloys, which are soft and easily deformable, are able to embed foreign particles into their structure without causing significant damage or wear to the shaft or other mating surfaces. The ability to embed foreign particles helps to prevent metal-to-metal contact and reduce friction, thereby minimizing wear and extending the lifespan of the bearing.
Additionally, Babbit alloys have good conformability, which allows them to conform to the shape of the mating surfaces and provide a tight seal. This helps to prevent the loss of lubricant and the ingress of contaminants, further protecting the bearing system.
Other reasons why Babbit alloys are preferred as bearing materials include:
- Low coefficient of friction: Babbit alloys have a relatively low coefficient of friction, which helps to reduce the amount of energy lost as heat during operation.
- Good load-carrying capacity: Babbit alloys have the ability to support heavy loads without excessive deformation or failure.
- Corrosion resistance: Babbit alloys have good resistance to corrosion, making them suitable for use in various environments.
- Compatibility with lubricants: Babbit alloys have good compatibility with various lubricants, ensuring effective lubrication of the bearing surfaces.
- Ease of manufacturing: Babbit alloys can be easily cast into complex shapes, allowing for the production of bearings with intricate designs and custom specifications.
In summary, the excellent embeddability of Babbit alloys, along with their other desirable properties such as low friction, good load-carrying capacity, and corrosion resistance, make them an ideal choice for bearing materials in a wide range of applications.
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