The structure and advantages of PTFE bearings are detailed in the provided description, with a focus on their exceptional load capacity and maintenance-free operation. These bearings typically feature a backing crafted from standard steel or bronze, with the option for stainless steel upon request. A sintered bronze layer is meticulously applied onto the backing, playing a pivotal role in the bearing’s construction.
The bronze layer assumes critical importance as it becomes impregnated with a PTFE-based self-lubricating compound, devoid of lead, to form the sliding surface. This integration facilitates seamless movement and minimizes the necessity for additional lubrication, enhancing operational efficiency.
Furthermore, the bronze intermediate layer significantly aids in heat dissipation, a crucial aspect for preserving the bearing’s integrity and functionality during operation. It also fosters a robust bond between the backing and the sliding surface, augmenting the bearing’s overall durability and operational capabilities.
In addition to these features, the steel backing undergoes a treatment process involving the application of a tin layer. Beyond its structural role, this tin coating serves a crucial protective function by safeguarding against corrosion. This attribute is especially vital in environments where the bearings may encounter moisture or other corrosive agents, thereby prolonging their lifespan and sustaining optimal performance over time.
PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) dry-running bearings are high-performance engineering components widely used in various industrial applications. Here are some key characteristics and parameters of PTFE bearings:
Self-lubricating: PTFE bearings do not require additional lubricants due to their self-lubricating properties.
maintenance-free: The self-lubricating nature of PTFE bearings means they require little to no maintenance, reducing both maintenance costs and downtime.
High load capacity: PTFE bearings are designed to withstand high loads, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications.
Low friction coefficient: PTFE has a very low coefficient of friction, which helps to reduce energy loss and increase mechanical efficiency.
Minimal bearing clearance: PTFE bearings are designed with minimal internal clearance, which helps to enhance the precision and performance of the bearings.
Operating temperature range: PTFE bearings can operate at temperatures up to 250°C, making them suitable for high-temperature environments.
Material: PTFE bearings are typically made with a steel or bronze backing, and a stainless steel backing is available on request.
Thermal conductivity: The bronze intermediate layer ensures effective heat conduction and forms a solid bond between the backing and the sliding surface.
Running-in period: PTFE bearings have a running-in period during initial use, where some PTFE mixture transfers to the counter material, forming a protective layer.
Performance enhancement: The addition of oil or other non-corrosive fluids can further improve the performance of PTFE bearings.
Parameters:
Maximum load: The maximum load that the bearing can withstand. Maximum sliding speed: The maximum speed the bearing can achieve without excessive wear. Maximum PV value: The PV value is a product of pressure (P) and velocity (V), a crucial parameter in bearing design that determines the bearing’s load capacity and lifespan. Temperature range: The temperature range within which the bearing can operate normally. Shaft tolerance: The dimensional precision of the shaft, ensuring that the bearing can be correctly installed and operate smoothly. Housing tolerance: The dimensional precision of the bearing housing, ensuring correct installation and alignment. Shaft roughness: The smoothness of the shaft surface, affecting the bearing’s friction and wear. Shaft hardness: The hardness of the shaft, impacting its wear resistance and load-bearing capacity. These characteristics and parameters make PTFE bearings a preferred solution in many industrial applications, especially in environments that require high load capacity, low maintenance, and high temperature resistance.
