New research by SKF could make hybrid bearings more cost-effective and reliable, paving the way for their use in a wider range of applications.

Hybrid bearings, which combine hardened steel rings with rolling elements made of high-performance ceramic materials, are an increasingly popular option for demanding applications. Bearings of this type can outperform conventional designs where high speeds, high temperatures or poor lubrication conditions are experienced.

Those characteristics have led to their use in jet engines and other critical aerospace equipment. Hybrid bearings also provide high levels of electrical resistance, making them useful in applications, such as electric motors and generators, where stray currents can damage steel bearing surfaces.

Ceramic materials have many characteristics that make them ideal for bearing applications. Modern ceramics such as silicon nitride are hard, light and can be manufactured with an extremely smooth surface finish. Ceramic materials do have disadvantages, however.