# Friction and Wear Performances of Materials for Wind Turbine Sliding Bearing Bushes
## 1 Introduction  
Wind power generation, a sustainable and renewable energy source, is gaining widespread recognition globally, prompting increased attention from governments worldwide [1; 2; 3; 4]. Within wind turbines, rolling bearings serve as pivotal components in power transmission systems. However, the evolution of wind turbines towards higher power capacities has unveiled challenges associated with rolling bearings, including low power density, substantial radial dimensions, elevated costs, and a heightened failure rate. The integration of sliding bearings emerges as a viable solution to enhance transmission efficiency, diminish failure rates, and curtail economic expenditures, thereby promising a bright market outlook [5; 6; 7; 8; 9]. Nevertheless, the intricate operational conditions of wind power, characterized by low speeds and heavy loads, introduce complexities. Factors such as fluctuating wind loads, intricate structural coupling deformation, and heat generated by friction and wear pose formidable challenges to the utilization of plain bearings in the wind power sector [10; 11; 12].  
A critical component of sliding bearings, the bearing bush, frequently experiences friction phenomena with the shaft diameter in low-speed, high-load working conditions. This interaction induces heightened friction and shear stress, ultimately resulting in bearing bush failure. The performance and longevity of sliding bearings are consequently compromised. Addressing this challenge necessitates a strategic approach, emphasizing the selection of appropriate materials for bearing coatings. This method aims to significantly enhance the bonding strength between the bearing bush matrix and coating, thereby effectively improving the anti-friction and wear resistance of the bearing bush [13; 14; 15; 16].  
[PERSON] et al. [17] demonstrated the superiority of tin-based babbitt alloy, prepared through arc spraying and flame spraying processes, over traditional methods. Similarly, [PERSON] et al. [18] utilized spraying technology to apply a PTFE coating to Si3N4/TiC ceramics, resulting in a 65-80% reduction in friction coefficient compared with conventional samples.  
Laser cladding, an advanced and environmentally friendly modification technology, employs a high-energy laser beam to melt substrates and powders. Compared with traditional coating preparation processes, laser cladding facilitates the thorough intermingling of alloy elements in the matrix and powder, refining grains, bolstering coating bonding strength, and enhancing the anti-friction and wear resistance of the bearing bush [19; 20; 21]. Despite the potential benefits, research on laser cladding technology for the preparation of anti-friction and wear-resistant coatings of bearing bush materials remains relatively scarce. This study addresses this gap by selecting two sets of matrix and powder materials, employing laser cladding technology to generate coatings on the substrate surface. The ensuing friction and wear tests, conducted under varying loads, comprehensively explore the tribological and wear properties of the coatings. This analysis encompasses macroscopic morphology, friction coefficient, wear quality, wear rate, and wear mark characteristics, providing valuable insights for the preparation of bearing shell coatings with superior friction and wear properties using laser cladding technology.