Preparation of titanium alloy outer ring self-lubricating spherical plain bearing by two-step extrusion forming process

Self-lubricating spherical plain bearing is a key component widely used in aerospace field. The spherical plain bearing made of titanium alloy has lighter weight and better corrosion resistance. In order to manufacture the outer ring of self-lubricating spherical plain bearing with titanium alloy, a two-step extrusion forming process was proposed. Taking GE15DE1TK spherical plain bearing as an example, the finite element simulation model of the forming process was established, the forming test was carried out, and the outer ring of self-lubricating spherical plain bearing made by TC4 titanium alloy was successfully prepared. The results show that the forming defects such as over extrusion and insufficient extrusion can be improved by optimizing the die structure, the size of outer ring blank and the lubrication conditions. The forming parameters for GE15DE1TK spherical plain bearing are given. The prepared spherical plain bearing can be used directly without other processes to correct no load rotational breakaway torque.