Brass alloys for use in turbocharger bearing applications

A turbocharger bearing formed of an alloy that comprises, by weight:

• about 57% to about 60% copper;
• less than about 0.1% lead;
• less than about 1% iron;
• less than about 0.4% tin;
• less than about 1% nickel;
• about 1.5% to about 3.0% manganese;
• about 0.5% to about 2.0% silicon;
• about 1.3% to about 2.3% aluminum;
• and
• a balance zinc,
• with the proviso that a ratio of Si/Mn is in the range of about 0.3 to about 0.7, and with the further proviso that a zinc equivalent content according to the following formula:
• ZnEq=Zn+Si*10−Mn/2+Al*5 is from about 51% to about 58%, and
• wherein the turbocharger bearing exhibits a tensile strength Rm greater than about 600 MPa, a proof strength Rp0.2 greater than about 350 MPa, and an elongation ratio greater than about 12%.

A method of manufacturing a bearing for use in a gas turbine engine, the method comprising the steps of:

• forming an alloy comprising:
• about 57% to about 60% copper;
• less 0.1% lead;
• less than about 1% iron;
• less than about 0.4% tin;
• less than about 1% nickel;
• about 1.5% to about 3.0% manganese;
• about 0.5% to about 2.0% silicon;
• about 1.3% to about 2.3% aluminum;
• and
• a balance zinc;
• and
• machining the alloy into the shape of a turbocharger bearing.