MoS2-shot coating technology is recently focused as one of potential methods of surface modification to realize a low friction state. In this paper, performances of a small-sized journal bearing with MoS2-shot coating, which is aimed to be applied to a spindle of precision equipment such as magnetic recording storage system, are experimentally investigated through the observation of surface property and Stribeck diagram. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images and reflection electron microscope (REM) images of SUS surface with MoS2-shot coating show that original MoS2 particles are broken into smaller pieces at bumping against SUS surface by jet flows of highly pressurized air, and are forcibly embedded into the surface with forming micro-dimples. Results of coefficient-of-friction characteristics of shaft-sleeve interface of the journal bearing, i.e., Stribeck diagram, show MoS2-shot bearing can realize a low friction performance at a low rotational speed and reduce the magnitude of stick-slip much compared with the case of no-coating bearing.
