Current State of Metal–Matrix Composites for Bearing

Metal–matrix composites (MMCs) have very broad application prospects in bearings. This paper reviews the research progress of aluminum matrix composites (AMCs), copper matrix composites (CMCs), and metal–matrix self-lubricating materials, respectively, from the mechanical properties required for bearing design. The hardness, wear resistance, and tensile strength of AMCs and CMCs were discussed, and the friction behavior of AMCs and the application of the CMCs preparation process were further reviewed. On this basis, self-lubricating materials, which are the research hotspots of bearing materials, were reviewed, and their future development was prospected.