Bearing Bushings in Plastic: Replace Metal with Polymer
We offer a range of materials that can replace metal in bearing bushings, such as POM-C, PA6G, PEEK and PE-UHMW. These materials have several advantages compared to metal, such as low friction, high wear resistance and good chemical resistance.
But why would you want to replace metal with plastic in bearing bushings? Well, one of the main reasons is that plastic can offer a low friction coefficient, which can lead to lower energy consumption and less wear. Additionally, plastic can be more corrosion resistant than metal, which can be important in environments where there is a risk of moisture or chemicals.
POM-C: Low Friction and High Wear Resistance
POM-C is a material that is well suited for bearing bushings that require low friction and high wear resistance. This material has a friction coefficient of around 0.2-0.3, which is significantly lower than what is common for metal. Additionally, POM-C has a high wear resistance, which means it can withstand wear and tear over a long period of time.
But what makes POM-C so suitable for bearing bushings? Well, one of the most important properties is its ability to self-lubricate. POM-C contains a small amount of oil that is released during operation, which reduces friction and prevents wear. This means that bearing bushings in POM-C can function without lubrication, which can be a major advantage in certain applications.
PA6G: Heavy Loads and High Stress
PA6G is a material that is suitable for bearing bushings that are subjected to heavy loads and high stress. This material has a high mechanical strength and good resistance to wear and tear. Additionally, PA6G has a high PV limit, which means it can withstand a high combination of pressure and speed.
But how can you ensure that bearing bushings in PA6G function correctly under heavy loads? Well, one of the most important things is to ensure that the design is correct. Bearing bushings in PA6G must have a sufficient thickness and diameter to withstand the forces that act on them. Additionally, the material must be of high quality and have a uniform structure to prevent cracks and breaks.
PEEK: Extreme Conditions and High Temperature
PEEK is a material that is suitable for bearing bushings that are subjected to extreme conditions, such as high temperature, chemicals and radiation. This material has a high chemical resistance and good mechanical strength, even at high temperatures. Additionally, PEEK has a high PV limit and a low friction coefficient, which makes it suitable for bearing bushings that require high performance.
But what makes PEEK so suitable for extreme conditions? Well, one of the most important properties is its ability to withstand chemicals and radiation. PEEK is a material that is very resistant to most chemicals and forms of radiation, which makes it suitable for applications in the chemical industry and medicine.
PE-UHMW: Abrasive Environments and Low Friction
PE-UHMW is a material that is suitable for bearing bushings that are subjected to abrasive environments and require low friction. This material has a high wear resistance and good resistance to wear and tear, even in the presence of chemicals and abrasive materials. Additionally, PE-UHMW has a low friction coefficient, which makes it suitable for bearing bushings that require low energy consumption.
But how can you ensure that bearing bushings in PE-UHMW function correctly in abrasive environments? Well, one of the most important things is to ensure that the material is of high quality and has a uniform structure. Additionally, the bearing bushings must be correctly designed and manufactured to withstand the forces that act on them.
Cost and Maintenance Advantages
But what are the advantages of using plastic in bearing bushings, compared to metal? Well, one of the main advantages is that plastic can offer a lower cost and less maintenance. Plastic bearing bushings can be manufactured using simpler methods and with less material, which can lead to lower costs. Additionally, plastic bearing bushings can function for a longer period of time without maintenance, which can reduce operating costs.
But can you really replace metal with plastic in all applications? No, it depends on the requirements of the bearing bushings. In some cases, metal may still be the best choice, for example in applications where an extremely high mechanical strength or high temperature resistance is required. But in many cases, plastic can be a good alternative, for example in applications where low friction, high wear resistance and good chemical resistance are required.
For example, if you have a bearing bushing that is subjected to a combination of heavy loads and high speed, PA6G may be a good choice. But if you have a bearing bushing that is subjected to extreme temperatures and chemicals, PEEK may be a better choice. It is therefore important to choose the right material and design for each specific application.
Shore Hardness and Material Properties
When choosing materials for bearing bushings, it is important to consider the material properties, such as Shore hardness. Shore hardness is a measure of a material's hardness, and it is usually expressed in Shore D units (65 Shore D). A high Shore hardness indicates a harder material, while a low Shore hardness indicates a softer material.
But how can you use Shore hardness to choose the right material for bearing bushings? Well, one of the most important things is to ensure that the material has a sufficient hardness to withstand the forces that act on it. If the material is too soft, it may wear out too quickly, while a material that is too hard may be too brittle and break.
Design and Manufacturing
When designing and manufacturing plastic bearing bushings, it is important to consider the material properties and the application's requirements. This can include choosing the right material, designing the bearing bushing to withstand the forces that act on it, and manufacturing it using the right methods and tools.
But what makes a plastic bearing bushing so good? Well, one of the most important properties is its ability to function for a long time without maintenance. Plastic bearing bushings can be manufactured with a self-lubricating surface, which reduces friction and prevents wear. Additionally, plastic bearing bushings can be more corrosion resistant than metal, which can be important in environments where there is a risk of moisture or chemicals.
If you have questions about plastic bearing bushings or want to know more about the materials and design options available, do not hesitate to contact us for more information and advice. We have extensive experience working with plastic and can help you find the right solution for your specific needs.