Why are hydrodynamic bearings the better choice in aviation?

Hydrodynamic bearings offer decisive advantages over other bearing systems in aviation. These aerospace bearings are

• more robust,
• enable a higher load capacity and
• and are convincing due to their lower weight.

As a certified supplier, the Miba Bearing Group specialises in the production of engine bearings for the aviation industry.

This aerospace bearing technology is not only more durable, but is also particularly in demand in applications with high speeds and loads, such as in aviation. 

By reducing friction and wear, engine bearings contribute to improved overall system performance and reliability - an essential advantage in an industry that demands maximum performance and durability.

These properties are especially advantageous for use in eVTOL vehicles, which play a central role in Urban Air Mobility (UAM).

How are Miba aerospace bearings revolutionizing aviation?

How is a Miba aerospace bearing constructed?

The bearings are made from different materials depending on the specific requirements of the application.

Miba generally uses a steel backing and a bearing metal such as bronze, aluminium or white metal for hydrodynamic bearings. These materials offer an ideal combination of strength and lubricity.

In addition, polymer layers and special coatings, such as electroplated or PVD (physical vapour deposition) coatings, can be applied. These coatings can also further enhance the performance of bearings in aerospace applications.

For certain applications, especially where additional weight savings are required, the bearing metal can also be applied directly to the corresponding component (e.g. inner diameter of a gear wheel) using PVD technology.

Thanks to this compact structure and robust design, plain bearings offer significant advantages in terms of installation space, weight and reliability compared to other bearing solutions. These advantages are particularly significant for eVTOL applications, which are becoming increasingly important in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).

What exactly does PVD (sputter) technology look like?

Miba sputter technology is revolutionising bearings in aviation. A tribologically optimised alloy (bearing metal) is applied to the bearing. Miba also uses this process to apply the bearing metal directly to the inner diameter of gear wheels for aircraft turbines. This makes it possible to design turbines that allow aeroplanes to operate more efficiently and quietly. The technology offers unrivalled efficiency. This is possible thanks to the unique coating processes.

What are the advantages of bearings with this sputter technology in aviation?

The use of gears with the Miba high-performance sputter coating enables the realisation of turbines with a 20% reduction in fuel consumption and a significant reduction in noise. Expressed in figures, they cause two thirds less ground noise.

Emissions are also reduced - CO2 by 15 % and NOx by 50 %.

In addition, turbine parts with Miba sputter coating technology reduce the required installation space and increase efficiency. This makes aircraft turbines more efficient, quieter and more environmentally friendly. Thanks to innovative sputtering, turbines can be designed to be more compact and significantly more efficient.

Miba was honoured with the National Innovation Award for this innovation in 2020. The bearing technology with sputter coating makes aviation more efficient and environmentally friendly. Miba sputter technology is already in use in many medium-sized aircraft from leading manufacturers. The next development step is a lead-free sputter coating, with which we want to further increase environmental friendliness.

Where are Miba bearings used in aviation?

In aircraft turbines in particular, they ensure the realisation of special geared turbofans that allow for high efficiency, lower fuel consumption and lower emissions.

The bearings are also used in aviation engines, where they impress with their robustness and performance.

Their ability to withstand high loads and extreme conditions makes them the ideal choice for these critical components.

They are also used in many other aviation systems, especially where installation space, weight and reliability play a major role.

What advantages do Miba aerospace bearing solutions offer aviation customers?

Miba bearings offer various benefits for aviation customers, including

1. High performance and reliability: Miba bearings are known for their high performance and reliability. They are designed to function under extreme conditions and high loads, which is important for the demanding requirements of the aviation industry.

2. Long service life: Miba bearings have a long service life, which leads to a reduction in maintenance and replacement costs. This is particularly beneficial in the aerospace industry, where reliability and cost efficiency are crucial.

3. Lightweight construction: lightweight and compact designs can be realised with Miba engine bearings, resulting in improved fuel efficiency and reduced operating costs.

4. Resistance to high temperatures: Miba bearings are known for their excellent resistance to high temperatures and thermal loads. This is particularly important in the aerospace industry, where engines and other components are exposed to high thermal loads.

5. Noise and vibration reduction: Miba bearings help to reduce noise and vibration.

How is Miba committed to sustainability in aviation with its aerospace bearing solutions?

Sustainability is a central component of Miba's innovation strategy.

Miba's bearing technology and sputter coatings help to reduce fuel consumption and emissions in aviation. 

At the same time, Miba is continuously working on new, environmentally friendly materials and processes to make the aviation industry even more sustainable.

With this commitment, Miba is sending a strong signal for a greener future - in line with ‘Technologies for a Cleaner Planet’.