Metallurgical & SEM Investigations – Degraded Compressor Bearing

Determining Cause of Surface Degradation on an Air Compressor Bearing

Metallographic and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Investigations were used to Determine the Cause of Surface Degradation found on a Tin-Copper Alloy Bearing of an Air Compressor. The degradation consisted of pitting, grooving and metal loss that resulted in a frosted surface appearance.

There was no evidence of corrosion or mechanical damage identified. Recrystallization of the bearing contact surfaces in the degraded regions, coupled with the surface pitting and grooving, indicating the degradation resulted from electric discharge damage.

O’Donnell Consulting Engineers Performs Materials / Weld Troubleshooting on Components including Vessels, Piping and other Process Equipment.