High-load friction behavior of a hinge bearing based on a carbon/ silicon carbide composite

Two-dimensional carbon fiber-reinforced silicon carbide matrix (C/SiC) composites used for hinge bearing were prepared by chemical vapor infiltration. The testing and results of unlubricated friction behavior of hinge bearing under high-load transmitting motion was investigated. The effects of load on friction behavior between different sliding couple were analyzed. Finally, worn surfaces and debris were observed by scanning electron microscopy to study the wear mechanism. A constant friction coefficient between self-mated C/SiC composites of 0.68 was obtained on increasing load up to about 5800 N. Excellent wear resistance and load-carrying ability was demonstrated by low wear and especially small deformation.