LAUSR

Purpose This study aims to evaluate the tribological behavior of water-lubricated rubber bearings sliding against stainless steel under different lubricate conditions. Design/methodology/approach The water-lubricated rubber bearings under various normal loads and sliding speeds were carried out on the ring-block friction test, and the wear morphology is test conducted by using scanning electron microscope. Findings The results indicate that the surface of water-lubricated rubber bearings has a more alternative friction coefficient and wear rate under seawater than other lubricate conditions. The seawater not only acts as a lubricating medium but also brings microstructure while corroding the rubber interface, thereby further enhancing the lubricating effect and storing abrasive debris. Originality/value In this paper, tribological properties of the water-lubricated rubber bearing on ring-block friction test has been investigated. Water-lubricated rubber bearing was carried out on various lubricate conditions, and the friction coefficient, wear rate and worn surface were analyzed. Also, the effects of sliding speeds were investigated. Peer review The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-06-2020-0204/