AbstractPolymer composites are used as facing materials in hydrodynamic bearings for their low friction and ‘compliant’ properties, which play an important role during machinery operation. In journal bearings, this low friction property can be of significant importance during start and stop cycles when insufficient oil is available to fully separate the surfaces in relative motion. Current work is aimed at determining a suitable material for use in hydrodynamic journal bearings for applications in hydroelectric power plants. This study investigates friction and wear encountered during the transition from the stationary state to operational speed (acceleration) during initial start‐up. This is examined for virgin poly‐tetra‐fluoro‐ethylene (PTFE) together with a series of commercially available PTFE‐based composites and a babbitt material in boundary/mixed lubrication conditions. Tests are performed using standard laboratory block‐on‐ring test apparatus with a VG32 mineral oil. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.