Plastic Bearings: The Benefits of Plastic Over Metal Bearings
The use of plastic bearings is increasing, as more and more industries are discovering the many benefits of plastic over metal bearings. Plastic bearings offer a number of advantages such as improved wear and corrosion resistance, reduced noise and vibration, higher speed and load capabilities, and a longer lifespan. Plastic bearings provide superior performance when compared to traditional metal bearings and can be used in a wide range of applications.
Plastic bearings come in a variety of styles and sizes, allowing them to be used in a wide range of applications. Plastic bearings are available with a variety of bearing shields and seals to protect against the elements, such as dust, dirt, and moisture. The materials used to construct plastic bearings are typically polypropylene, polyethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyacetal, or polyvinylidene fluoride. Plastic bearings are typically used in low speed applications, however, recent advancements in technologies and manufacturing processes have enabled plastic bearings to be used in higher speed applications.
Plastic bearings are also becoming increasingly popular due to their low cost and easy maintenance. Plastic bearings do not require additional lubrication or maintenance as is necessary for traditional metal bearings. There are no additional costs associated with lubrication, which increases the overall life of the bearing and reduces the amount of downtime required to maintain the bearing.
The plastic material used in plastic bearings is more resistant to wear and corrosion than traditional metal bearings. This reduces the amount of downtime and maintenance costs associated with the bearing. Plastic bearings also typically offer higher speed and load capabilities than traditional metal bearings, allowing them to be used in high-speed applications.
Plastic bearings are becoming increasingly popular due to their superior performance and cost effectiveness. Incompressible plastomers, such as polyacetal and polyethylene offer nearly frictionless operation and have a service life that is often much greater than their metal counterparts. Plastic bearings are also highly resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for applications in corrosive environments.
Overall, plastic bearings offer a number of benefits to the industrial, automotive, and recreational markets. Plastic bearings offer superior wear and corrosion resistance, reduced noise and vibration, higher speed and load capabilities, and longer service life. Plastic bearings are also easy to maintain and provide superior performance, making them an attractive option for a wide range of applications.
