Material Strengths Make a Big Difference to Bearing Performance in Aerospace Applications

Material Strengths Make a Big Difference to Bearing Performance in Aerospace Applications

Precision bearing specialist CARTER MANUFACTURING has generated a wealth of research and data relating to TiC Titanium Carbide coated bearings and their crucial benefit to the extreme demands of aerospace systems. TiC-coated balls are being increasingly requested for space applications and there are several key reasons why this is happening. Components used in these types of applications, such as satellites, radars and microwave systems which incorporate TiC-coated bearing balls, offer a superior alternative to traditional steel balls by combining the strength of steel with the wear-resistant properties of ceramics.

These bearings are extremely hard, as they are produced using Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) to create a hard, durable layer of around 30 GPa (Gigapascals). Commonly utilised in space-qualified bearings, they offer unique features making them ideal for high-stress environments, operating smoothly and efficiently in applications including high speeds, high temperatures (up to 440C) and radiation.

Other important benefits of TiC-coated balls include enhanced bearing life by reducing adhesive wear, controlling material transfer, and enabling operation in boundary or unlubricated applications. Furthermore, thanks to their thermal and physical stability, unlike silicon nitride (ceramic) balls, TiC-coated steel balls have a similar thermal expansion coefficient to steel bearings, ensuring consistent preload in extreme temperature applications.

TiC-coated bearing balls are highly resistant to corrosion, which is important in space applications where there is no atmosphere to protect materials from harsh environments. They also help to ensure that bearings continue to function properly over long periods of time. Compatibility is also critical because it means TiC bearings can be used in high-vacuum applications, helping to avoid the breakdown of lubricants whilst also preventing cold welding of components.

Carter’s focus on delivering the most resilient components for aerospace bearings is also shared by their success in continuing to develop their space-saving Silverthin thin-section bearings. These thin-section bearings have a very low profile, combined with an ultra-compact design. This helps engineers to reduce the overall weight of their systems and makes them ideal for where space is limited, such as in satellite, radar and microwave systems.

These bearings are manufactured to very tight tolerances, ensuring a high degree of precision and accuracy, which is measured in microns. This is especially important in applications where precise positioning is required, such as satellite dish antennas and radar systems. Despite their thin profile, these thin-section bearings can handle heavy loads due to their unique design, which features a larger ball complement compared to traditional bearings. This enables them to handle heavier loads without sacrificing performance.

Silverthin thin-section bearings also have a low friction coefficient, helping to reduce energy consumption and minimise heat generation, factors which are important in applications where power consumption and heat dissipation is critical, such as satellite and microwave systems. Another important feature is corrosion resistance, which is why many thin-section bearings for these applications are made of corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel, making them ideal for use in harsh environments, such as outer space.

Additionally, Silverthin can produce thin-section bearings using speciality materials, including Cronidur 30, M50 tool steel, thin dense chrome-plated 52100 bearing steel, and non-standard balls made of 440C stainless steel, silicon nitride ceramic, industrial ruby, and TiC-coated 440C stainless steel.