Self Lubricating Bearings Manufacturers

Self-lubricating bearings retain their load carrying capacity at high temperatures. They are most effective in applications where relative motion is not sufficient to circulate oil or grease required for metallic bearings. Self-lubricating bearings are also used for temperatures beyond the scope of conventional lubricants. These temperatures may range from 400 to 750°F or higher. These bearings are especially well suited for corrosive environments. The most common self-lubricating materials include polytetra fluoro-ethylene (PTFE), graphite and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2). PTFE is a soft, waxy solid, which is usually compounded with reinforcing materials such as composite fabrics with epoxy resins. It is also compounded with metal or ceramic powders to build strength and improve thermal conductivity, or is supported on a porous bronze substrate or stainless steel or bronze screen. The self-lubricating benefits provide an artificial lubricant film for startups, shock loads, and other transients, while the fluid provides full-film lubrication once adequate speed is reached. Self-lubricating bearings can improve performance even in fully lubricated applications. The main advantage is lower startup torque, which reduces the system's power requirements.