Abstract: A method of making a multi-layer plain bearing comprises roll-bonding a relatively soft aluminum-tin alloy to a harder aluminum-based bearing substrate and then roll-bonding the composite to a steel backing. Following heat treatment conventional for reticulation of the aluminum-tin alloy the surface is machined to give a precise overall bearing thickness of which the aluminum-tin overlay is in the range of 0.01-0.10 mm, typical of an overlay but having greater fatigue strength and war resistance than conventional electro-deposited materials. Alternatively, the overlay substrate and backing strips may be roll-bonded simultaneously.

Abstract: Bearings and a method of manufacture thereof are described, the method comprising the steps of forming a half bearing of a desired size from a leaded bronze alloy having a strong backing material, indenting the bore surface of the leaded bronze alloy, depositing a layer of a lead-based overlay material onto the indented bore surface, depositing a layer of indium onto the lead-based overlay material surface and heat treating to diffuse the indium at least into the lead-based overlay material.

Abstract: Flanged bearings are described wherein flanges are joined to a journal bearing by means of co-operating lugs on the flange and slots in the journal bearing end face. The lugs are offset from the remainder of the flange material in order to provide increased mechanical interlocking after machining of the bearing.