Abstract: At least one bearing insert is secured within a metallic housing to form a wear resistant bearing. In operation, the bearing insert engages a journal and provides a wear-resistant surface. The housing defines a cavity for receiving the bearing insert. The cavity preferably expands radially so that the bearing insert remains secured in the cavity. The bearing insert can comprise a refractory ceramic. The bearing insert is secured within the cavity by any suitable means, such as thermal shrink-fit. A thin layer of sacrificial metal protects the bearing insert during initial start-up. The sacrificial metal wears to expose the bearing insert. Further wear exposes a larger area of the refractory bearing insert. A second bearing insert can be disposed opposite to the first so that rotating the housing can expose the second bearing insert to the journal.

Abstract: At least one bearing insert is secured within a metallic housing to form a wear resistant bearing. In operation, the bearing insert engages a journal and provides a wear-resistant surface. The housing defines a cavity for receiving the bearing insert. The cavity preferably expands radially so that the bearing insert remains secured in the cavity. The bearing insert can comprise a refractory ceramic. The bearing insert is secured within the cavity by any suitable means, such as thermal shrink-fit. A thin layer of sacrificial metal protects the bearing insert during initial start-up. The sacrificial metal wears to expose the bearing insert. Further wear exposes a larger area of the refractory bearing insert. A second bearing insert can be disposed opposite to the first so that rotating the housing can expose the second bearing insert to the journal.