The article presents the results of tests of the tribological properties of a bearing alloy on a tin matrix (B89) after surface modification by means of friction stir processing (FSP) with a Whorl tool. The samples were processed using two tool speeds of 280 and 580 RPM and a constant linear speed of 355 mm/min. The obtained results proved the significant influence of FSP on both the morphology of the precipitates and the investigated properties. Changes in the nature and course of friction were also observed, including the participation of individual wear mechanisms in the studied test conditions. The use of the 560 RPM tool rotation speed reduces the friction coefficient and the weight loss by about 30%. The flexural strength was also increased from 123 to 307 MPa.
Keywords: FSP; bearing alloys; tribological properties; wear mechanism.