Observation of Wear in PEEK Race - PTFE Retainer Hybrid Polymer Bearings under Dry Contact

Abstract

In order to establish an optimal combination of materials used for polymer thrust bearings, two types of components (polyetheretherketone (PEEK) races - polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) retainer and PEEK races – PEEK retainer) were tested by rolling contact fatigue. Their wear properties were investigated and it was concluded that using a PTFE retainer, the wear loss was improved due to PTFE wear debris attaching to the wear track and acting as a lubricant.