Tribological characterisation of polymer composites for hydropower bearings: Experimentally developed versus commercial materials

To mitigate the effects of downstream lubricant spillage from hydroelectric power plants, environmentally friendly lubricants are required. For the sustainable operation of oil-free bearings, the development of high performance bearing materials is crucial. In this study, the tribological performance of PPS and UHMWPE-based composites, incorporating various reinforcements, such as graphene oxide, is evaluated and compared with five commercial materials. Experiments were performed under different lubricating conditions; Dry, water, and using a glycerol-based environmentally adaptive lubricant (EAL). The use of water inhibited an adequate transfer film, which increased wear for most materials. EAL lubrication showed a significant reduction in friction (up to 98%) when compared to dry conditions. The experimentally developed PPS composite provided superior tribological properties, especially under water-lubricated conditions.

Automated summary

The study found that using environmentally friendly lubricants can significantly reduce friction, while using water can increase wear for most materials. Under different lubricating conditions, the PPS composite material demonstrated superior tribological properties.