Abstract

Fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites are gaining a foothold in the mass production of

lightweight components and were developed to complement a new generation of systems,
producing high quality products for various applications. One of the applications include the
application of bearings made of polymer composites for high-performance applications. Fiber
reinforced composite structure enables the bearing to support high static and dynamic loads.
Self-lubricated bearings entail less maintenance than traditional metal bearings. This makes
them extremely effective in applications where re-lubrication maintenance would prove
difficult. They are also able to operate in conditions where fluid lubricants are ineffective, such
as environments susceptible to corrosive gases, dirt, and dust; high temperatures; cryogenic
temperatures; radiation; extreme pressures; or vacuums. Due to these benefits, self-lubricating
bearings are being used over traditional metal bearings. Polymer composites manufacture by
automated fiber placement method provides very good orientation of fibers in all directions,
gives very good friction and wear properties, ideal for corrosive environments such as seawater
and acidic environments, have a high load capacity, excellent shock and edge loading capacity,
excellent corrosion resistance, and are dimensionally stable. Hence, manufacturing of bearing
can be a better idea with automated fiber placement method by the appropriate selection of
fiber and matrix to optimize cost to performance ratio.