Integrated manufacturing of REciclable multi-material COmposites for the TRANSport sector
Polytetrafluoroethylene@Glass Fibers/Epoxy Resin Composite with Outstanding Bond Integrity and Abrasion Resistant for Aerospace Self?Lubricated Bushings
This study focuses on the development of self?lubricating bushings by PTFE@GFs/EP composite, which provides a new option for engineering technicians when choosing the lining material to match self?lubricating bearings in the design process.This study focuses on the development of self?lubricating bushings by using polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)?coated glass fibers (PTFE@GFs) as the reinforcement, epoxy resin (EP) as the matrix, and 2?methylimidazole as the curing agent. The results indicate that the introduction of the PTFE coating significantly enhances the wear resistance of the PTFE@GFs/EP composite. When the curing temperature and curing time are 120?°C and 120 min, the PTFE@GFs/EP wear?resistant composite exhibits optimal interfacial bonding strength with the metal sleeve, achieving a maximum liner peel strength of 0.84?N?mm?1. Furthermore, when the thickness of the PTFE@GFs/EP composite is 0.37?mm and 0.39?mm, the bonding integrity of the self?lubricating bushing reaches 99% and 96% for the flange end face and inner bore, respectively, with peel strengths of 0.621 and 0.674?N?mm?1. Finally, 7075?T6 aluminum alloy is selected as the housing material for the bushing. A rotating mandrel is inserted into the self?lubricating flange bushing, and after assembly, when the clearance is within the range of 0–0.02?mm, the friction pair demonstrates smooth operation without jamming. This research provides a new option for engineering technicians when choosing the lining material to match self?lubricating bearings in the design process.
» Author: Ruihan Zhang, Lijia Wang, Zhen Li, Lihua Wu, Zheng Liu
» Publication Date: 30/07/2025
This project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement Nº 768737
