Graphite Bearing
A graphite bearing, sometimes called a graphalloy bearing, is a critical component in a wide range of machines and devices. In simple terms, a graphite bearing is a self-lubricating bearing that uses a unique blend of graphite particles and select metals to create a bearing material that exhibits excellent lubricity, improved thermal conductivity, decreased friction and wear, and superior corrosion-resistance.
Graphite bearings have been used for decades in industries ranging from aerospace to agricultural, to medical and military applications. The unique characteristics of graphite bearings make them ideal for use in applications where cost or part size is a major factor. Graphite bearings are commonly used in rotary, linear and reciprocating applications, where they can be either used as a primary bearing material or as a secondary replacement to traditional bearings.
Graphite bearings offer superior performance in many different applications. They are known for their high strength, durability, and heat resistance. Additionally, they exhibit excellent wear-resistance and low-friction, allowing for smooth bearing operation with minimal lubrication requirements. These characteristics make them ideal for applications where space and weight are an issue. Graphite bearings can also be machined and ground to exacting precision, allowing for intricate details and tight fits in the design of components.
Graphite bearings are composed of a combination of graphite particles, metal binders, lubricants, corrosion inhibitors, and other additives. The makeup of the individual components used to create the bearings can vary from one manufacturer to the next, with some bearings containing up to 65% graphite and 35% metals. The unique formulation of the graphite bearing attributes directly to its performance in specific applications.
Graphite bearings are often used as replacements for traditional bearings in applications where superior performance is required. For example, graphite bearings are often used in manufacturing machinery where cost or size is a major concern. Graphite bearings are also used in reciprocating motions, where they are able to dissipate heat quickly and reduce friction and wear. Additionally, graphite bearings can be beneficial in applications with harsh environmental conditions, such as exposure to chemicals, solvents, acids, or abrasives, in which they offer superior corrosion-resistance compared to traditional bearing materials.
Overall, graphite bearings provide a wide range of benefits and can be used in a variety of applications. They offer superior performance in terms of low-friction and wear-resistance, corrosion-resistance, thermal conductivity, and strength. When someone is on the hunt for a reliable bearing material that can deliver the high performance they require, the graphite bearing may be the perfect choice.
