Development of injection moulded self-lubricating short-fibre reinforced composites for use as plain bearing liner materials in aerospace applications

Dennis, Grant 2016. Development of injection moulded self-lubricating short-fibre reinforced composites for use as plain bearing liner materials in aerospace applications. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

This thesis is concerned with the development of short fibre and particle reinforced polymer composites for plain bearing liners for aerospace applications. Detailed experimental investigations of the tribological and mechanical characteristics of these materials has been completed. The thesis culminates with the identification of two possible materials that have the potential for direct injection moulding of a bearing liner. 1. Developing an Injection moulding process A thorough understanding of the capability of injection moulding PEEK composites was achieved through experimental investigation. Knowledge of the impact of varying injection moulding parameters on the final material was identified. 2. Friction and wear testing A bespoke test rig, in line with aerospace standards, was developed to allow the investigation of composite materials. Testing was conducted at room and high temperatures. A full analysis of the impact of the selected bulk material, short fibres and fillers was completed. Key parameters such as coefficient of friction, wear and fatigue life were identified. Further testing using optical microscopy was completed to enhance the understanding of the wear process and to support the findings of the detailed friction and wear testing program. 3. Mechanical testing The mechanical performance of PEEK materials was investigated through experimental analysis and available data. Again the impact of differing ratios of fillers and short fibres was determined. In addition static testing was used to investigate instantaneous strain and creep of selected materials. 4. Development of PEEK blends A final testing programme of two identified blends was completed that aimed to optimise for wear, friction and mechanical performance. The materials selected ware successful in matching aspects of the established design criteria but further work on the blends needs to be completed. However one of the selected materials is being proposed for an in service aerospace application.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Schools > Engineering
Subjects:	T Technology > TL Motor vehicles. Aeronautics. Astronautics
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Dry Sliding; Insection Moulded; Thermoplastic; Composite; Bearing.
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	2 February 2017
Last Modified:	20 Mar 2025 16:28
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/97497

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