Thomson says that its new Lube for Life self-lubricating linear bearing pillow blocks eliminate the need for expensive lubrication systems and provide continuous bearing lubrication and enhanced protection; the result is maximum bearing life and maintenance-free operation. Available for open or closed pillow block assemblies, Lube for Life can now be ordered as an option with Thomson Super Ball Bushing Bearings and Super Smart Ball Bushing Bearing Pillow Blocks. They come as a complete assembly for new application or in a retrofit kit for existing non self-lubricating pillow block assemblies.
Ellen Steinbrunner, the product manager, states: "Inadequate lubrication is far and away the most common and readily preventable causes of reduced bearing life and failure, and the Lube for Life option can be a big part of the solution. When Lube for Life assemblies are combined with Thomson Super Smart Ball Bushing bearings and Thomson 60 Case Shafting, users can achieve a dramatic increase in linear bearing life than could not otherwise be attained with conventional ball bushing bearings, along with shaft life that is double that of ordinary hardened and ground shafting."
Thomson Super Smart Ball Bushing Bearings are claimed to offer more than 200 times the life conventional ball bushing bearings. Combined with a Lube for Life assembly that promises up to three times the life of a bearing that is lubricated just once (and not subsequently) during installation, OEMs and after-market applications can realise big benefits. OEMs will benefit from maintenance-free machines that deliver significantly longer life and increased reliability to their customers, while maintenance, repair and overhaul specialists who need to replace linear bearings in existing applications will benefit from increased maintenance and replacement intervals for greater machine uptime and throughput.
Lube for Life pillow blocks work through self-lubricating cartridges pressed into each end of the pillow block housing, with the linear bearing itself initially lubricated with EP2 grease. The Lube for Life polymer is under constant pressure against the 60 Case shafting, ensuring that a film of lubricant is always present between the ball bearings and the inner race. Thomson 60 Case Shafting is available for same-day and next-day shipment, with no set-up fees on cut-to-length and special machining orders.
For more information, visit www.thomsonlinear.com
