Rolling contact fatigue studies on spray formed ceramics composite rolling elements

Spray formed ceramic rolling elements can enhance the scope of high speed anti-friction bearings. Spray forming offers distinct advantages over other manufacturing processes, in that it is possible to tailor make structural properties of the rolling element. Selection of ceramic composite material, hollowness ratio (D/d) and also post-heat treatment after spray forming will ensure the desired rolling contact performance. Alumina–titania (AT40) composite rings of different wall thicknesses (1, 2 and 3 mm) were spray formed and post-heat treated at 1200, 1400, 1500 and 1600 °C. observations clearly illustrate best possible performance of thinner rings with post-heat treatment at 1200 °C. Performance was evaluated in terms of structure–property relationship and also rolling contact wear.