Shafts & Bearings: Oilites®
Shafts & Bearings: Precision Engineering Solutions
Shafts and bearings are essential components in the smooth operation of machinery across various industries. This article delves into the key offerings from HPC Gears, providing an accessible explanation for those unfamiliar with these components. We’ll cover Cam Followers, housed bearing assemblies, Oilite® components, ball bearings, thermoplastic bearing housings, and more.
Cam Followers
A Cam Follower is a specialized type of bearing designed to follow cam profiles and transfer motion or force. They are commonly used in automation systems, conveyors, and machine tools.
How it works:
- Cam Followers consist of a needle or roller bearing encased in a hardened outer shell. This design allows them to withstand high loads while rolling smoothly along a surface or track.
HPC Gears Offering:
- Standard Range: Cam Followers starting from a 6mm diameter.
- Customization: Tailored designs based on specific drawings or samples provided by clients.
Applications:
- Precision manufacturing, robotic systems, and heavy-duty industrial equipment.
Housed Bearing Assemblies
Housed bearings simplify mounting and protect the bearings from contaminants. They consist of a bearing mounted within a robust housing for easy integration into machinery.
Single Housed Bearing Assembly:
- Material: EN8, Zinc plated.
- Bearings: Steel shielded bearings, pre-fitted.
- Design Options: Round, Two Flats, or Square with a 4-hole mounting.
Single Housed Bearing Assembly with Circlip:
- Includes a circlip for secure mounting.
Double Housed Bearing Assembly:
- Features similar to single housed units but includes additional stability with a circlip.
Applications:
- Found in conveyor systems, industrial fans, and agricultural machinery.
Oilite® Bearings and Components
Oilite® Bearings are self-lubricating components made from porous bronze impregnated with lubricating oil. They are ideal for applications requiring minimal maintenance.
How it works:
- The porosity of the material allows it to retain oil, which is released during operation, ensuring continuous lubrication.
HPC Gears Offering:
- Plain Bushes: For rotational or sliding motion applications.
- Flanged Bushes: Conforming to ISO 2795 standards.
- Solid Bars & Plates: Made from oil-retaining tin bronze for enhanced durability.
Benefits:
- Long-lasting lubrication, high wear resistance, and reduced maintenance needs.
Applications:
- Electric motors, pumps, and precision tools.
Ball Bearings
Ball bearings are versatile components designed to reduce friction between rotating parts. They consist of hardened steel balls housed within an inner and outer race.
Ball Thrust Bearing Sets:
- Optimized for high-speed, low-load applications.
- Available in various sizes to suit different machinery.
Applications:
- Widely used in automotive, aerospace, and industrial equipment.
Thermoplastic Bearing Housings
Thermoplastic bearing housings are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and ideal for environments requiring high hygiene standards, such as food processing.
Features:
- Material: FDA-approved PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate).
- Temperature Range: -35°C to 102°C.
- Design Options: Pillow Block, Take-Up, 2-Bolt Flange, and 4-Bolt Flange.
- Equipped with stainless steel grease nipples and closed-end covers.
Advantages:
- Lightweight and easy to install.
- Resists corrosion in moist or chemically harsh environments.
Applications:
- Food processing equipment, pharmaceuticals, and water treatment systems.
Cast Iron Bearing Housings
Cast iron bearing housings provide robust support and are suited for heavy-duty applications.
Options:
- Pillow Block: Secures shafts using setscrews.
- Take-Up Unit: Allows free alignment of the main shaft.
- Oval Flange Unit: Space-saving design with two-bolt mounting.
- Square Flange Unit: Provides robust support with four-bolt mounting.
Applications:
- Industrial machinery, conveyors, and material handling systems.
Rotary Shaft Seals
Rotary shaft seals are essential for preventing leaks and contamination in rotating machinery.
Components:
- Rubber elastomer covering.
- Stiffening metal sheet.
- Garter spring to maintain sealing force.
Benefits:
- Prevents fretting corrosion and ensures a tight seal for liquids or gases.
Applications:
- Gearboxes, pumps, and rotating shafts in industrial settings.
Why Choose HPC Gears?
HPC Gears delivers precision-engineered components tailored to industry-specific needs. With a diverse product range, customizable options, and strict adherence to quality standards, we ensure reliable and efficient solutions for all mechanical applications.