Self-lubricating bearings are corrosion-resistant

Paul Boughton

NSK is combining the corrosion-resistant properties of its Silver-Lube bearing housings with the excellent sealing and lubricating properties of Molded-Oil inserts to produce the new Life-Lube range of bearing units for use in industries where contact with water and process fluids is unavoidable, where excellent chemical resistance is required, and where longer lubrication life is necessary.

Life-Lube units are available in pillow block, two-bolt flange, four-bolt flange and take-up unit configurations, and are capable of accommodating initial misalignment from mounting errors. The bearings are fitted with stainless steel flingers and nitrile rubber seals as standard.

Housings are made from PBT thermoplastic resins, which, in addition to being non-corrodible, are resistant to detergents and a wide range of chemicals. The housings are paint-and coating-free, which prevents chipping or flaking, and they have smooth surfaces to assist in washdowns. As a result, they are suitable for use in applications where cleanliness is paramount.

Bearing inserts in the Life-Lube range are manufactured from stainless steel, which provides superior corrosion resistance. The inserts are lubricated with NSK's own oil-impregnated polymer, Molded-Oil. Oil is delivered on demand from this material and provides ample lubrication for the bearing for extended periods. Importantly, Molded-Oil solid lubricant resists contamination and addresses the problem of loss of lubricant due to water ingress - which is a feature of particular importance on machines used in food processing, as it provides the benefits of increased reliability and longer maintenance-free intervals.

In addition, Molded-Oil bearings can also reduce the total cost of ownership of equipment and machines by eliminating the downtime associated with relubrication, and by cost savings achieved through a reduced requirement for replacement bearings and lubricants.

For more information, visit www.nsk.com

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