This online resource provides detailed engineering information and specifications for the most frequently used materials. If there is a material that you do not
see in this database or if you would like to discuss your specific application, contact our Technical Team for answers to all of your questions.
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All plastic bearing materials have maximum static load capabilities. Exceeding
these loads can lead to catastrophic bearing failure in service, so this
information is critical.
(P) is calculated by determining the surface area of your bearing. This is done
by multiplying the inside diameter of the bearing by the overall length.
All plastic bearing materials have maximum velocity restrictions. This is based
on actual test data and field experience. The value is then rated based on no
load and no lubrication. Use of lubricants can increase these maximum values
but must be considered on an individual basis.
(V) is the relative speed of the shaft or slide in surface feet per minute
(SFPM). This is calculated by taking the shaft circumference and multiplying it
times the RPM of the shaft and divide by 12.
SFM as designed through drive device (i.e. DC Motor, conveyor drive, ball screw
linear speed)
All materials have a maximum service P value and V value. They also have a
maximum combined value called PV. The combined value is the maximum load x
speed the material can tolerate and must be considered independently of the P
and V maximums.
To determine your PV, multiply your calculated P from Section 1 x your
calculated V from Section 2. This is your PV
All materials have a maximum allowable temperature. These are generally
indicated as continuous operating temperatures. Since all plastics are
insulative in nature it is important to know the normal operating temperature
conditions to insure proper bearing fit and performance at that temperature.
It is also important to understand the potential temperature variations that
the bearing may experience. Since plane bearings must be press fit into the
housing, we must calculate that press to accommodate the full temperature
spectrum. This is also critical in maintaining the proper running clearances
between the shaft and bearing ID.
The condition to which the bearing is exposed is critical in the selection
process as all materials have different capabilities. Areas such as abrasive
wear, chemical compatibility, electrical or thermal considerations and
lubricated or unlubricated service are all important to the selection process.
The surrounding hardware conditions are important for thermal, friction and
wear results of the bearing material. Surface finishes of the shaft are
critical to the wear and frictional heat generation of the bearing, which
translates to wear life. The type of treatments to the dynamic surface will
also affect the life and friction performance of the bearing.
