Modeling and wear analysis of aircraft flap self-lubricating bearing

Wear of self-lubricating bearings in aircraft flaps is a significant contributor to bearing failure. Despite this, research into the wear characteristics of these bearings under real-world mechanical conditions is scant. This study introduces a wear analysis method for aircraft flap self-lubricating bearings that accounts for actual coupled variable load conditions. Initially, a contact stress distribution model based on conformal contact theory is developed for self-lubricating gaskets. This model incorporates both axial and radial coupling loads affecting the bearings. The contact stress on the self-lubricating gasket is then determined using finite element simulation, and the accuracy of this model is validated under pure radial load conditions. Subsequently, the wear quantity of the self-lubricating bearing is calculated employing the modified Archard model, based on the specific wear form observed. From this analysis, a life prediction model for the aircraft flap self-lubricating bearing is constructed. Furthermore, the study includes an examination of a self-lubricating bearing that has undergone 50,000 aircraft take-offs and landings using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). This research provides a solid theoretical foundation for predicting the service life of aircraft flap self-lubricating bearings and for a detailed analysis of their wear characteristics.