Posted on 1/16/2019
Approximately 27,000 ceramic tiles cover the exterior of the NASA Space Shuttle. Acting as a thermal barrier to the 1650º Celsius generated by atmospheric re-entry, the tiles illustrate the impressive resistance of ceramic materials. The impressive properties of ceramics are also being used in bearings. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director of SMB Bearings, explains the specifications, capabilities and differences of full ceramic and hybrid bearings.
Ceramics are primarily used in bearings due to the material’s corrosion and temperature resistant properties. Ceramics are inert, whereas metals are reactive, making ceramics resistant to corrosive materials such as seawater and many chemicals, including acids and alkalis. As ceramic bearings do not corrode, they require less maintenance than their steel alternatives and...