Adrian Carrera
Ultracomp is a family of laminate wound bearing materials with migratory lubricants added to the resin system. All Ultracomp bearing materials are high load, low speed materials designed to operate in extreme conditions without the need for external lubrication, making them ideal for industries like marine, construction, mining, oil and gas, and heavy equipment.
Ultracomp bearings incorporate migratory lubricants directly into the resin system, forming a continuous low-friction transfer layer during operation. This allows smooth, maintenance-free performance under high stress, vibration, and contamination exposure.
Manufacturing Difference: Prepreg vs. Wet-Wind
Most competitors use a wet-wind manufacturing system, which introduces variability and often leads to performance loss due to incomplete resin curing. Ultracomp uses a prepregnated (prepreg) fabric system: a cleaner, more controlled process that ensures consistent resin distribution, stronger fiber bonding, and superior bearing performance.
The prepreg process also enhances dimensional stability, wear resistance, and long-term mechanical integrity; key benefits in harsh operating environments where precision and reliability matter most.
Expert Note from Tristar: Many manufacturers underestimate the impact of processing methods on bearing performance. Tristar’s prepreg Ultracomp system ensures uniform resin impregnation and repeatable mechanical properties, eliminating the inconsistencies often seen with wet-wind processes. This results in bearings that perform reliably across temperature extremes, moisture exposure, and heavy vibration.
Ultracomp Construction and Lubricant Options
Ultracomp composite bearings are constructed from synthetic resins and reinforcing fibers. Each variant uses one of three migratory lubricants, chosen to balance friction reduction, wear resistance, and environmental compatibility:
- Graphite: Delivers exceptional dry-running and high-load performance.
- PTFE: Provides ultra-low friction and smooth operation.
- MoS₂: Improves wear life and performance under boundary lubrication conditions.
Ultracomp Product Grades
UC200
Description: Designed for high load, high impact, slow speed, and vibratory applications. UC200 has excellent abrasion resistance, does not require lubrication, and has extremely low moisture absorption.
- Resin and Lubricant: Bearing Grade Polyester / Graphite Composite
- Applications: Oscillating and sliding applications in construction machinery, heavy equipment joints, and marine deck systems.
Expert Note from Tristar: UC200 is one of the most widely used Ultracomp grades for pivot joints and oscillating bearings exposed to dirt, water, or shock. Its graphite-filled polyester resin creates a self-renewing transfer film, offering exceptional wear resistance even under misalignment or debris contamination.
UC300
Description: Similar in construction to UC200, with PTFE lubricant added to the resin matrix for a lower coefficient of friction and smoother operation.
- Resin and Lubricant: Bearing Grade Polyester / PTFE Composite
- Applications: Rotary or linear motion systems where smooth startup and reduced stick-slip behavior are essential such as hydraulic actuators, pivot pins, and linkage systems.
Expert Note from Tristar: UC300 excels where friction control and low startup torque are critical. The integrated PTFE lubrication layer minimizes wear on both bearing and shaft, making it ideal for precision rotary systems or repetitive linear motion under variable loads.
UC400
Description: Built on the same core structure as UC200, UC400 incorporates Molybdenum Disulfide (MoS₂) for enhanced wear life and stability in slow rotary or oscillating applications, particularly in saltwater or dry conditions.
- Resin and Lubricant: Bearing Grade Polyester / MoS₂ Composite
- Applications: Slow rotary, salt water, and dry oscillation environments such as marine cranes, davits, and underwater joints.
Expert Note from Tristar: UC400 was engineered for marine and offshore applications where corrosion, saltwater, and heavy load cycles quickly destroy metal bearings. Its MoS₂-lubricated matrix prevents scoring and galling, ensuring continuous operation even in submerged or corrosive conditions.
UC500
Description: Unique interwoven laminate using PTFE, polyester fibers, and graphite lubricant for exceptional load-carrying capability and friction control.
- Resin and Lubricant: Bearing Grade Blended Fiber / Graphite Composite
- Applications: full rotary applications where self-lubricated low friction and long wear is required such as winches, cranes, or vehicle suspension components.
Expert Note from Tristar: UC500 represents the highest performance tier of Ultracomp composites, combining the low-friction benefits of PTFE with the strength of graphite and polyester. It’s the go-to choice for rotational bearings operating in continuous duty or full 360° movement, especially in heavy industry or marine deck gear.
Other Ultracomp Varieties
There are a number of other grades of Ultracomp, designed to be used in specialized situations. An example of this is UC200FR which has similar performance characteristics to UC200 but utilizes a special resin fabric which makes it fire resistant. Another variation is UC300AR, which is similar to UC300 but is manufactured with a resin with a higher temperature rating which allows it to operate at a peak temp of 340°F (versus 325°F for regular UC300).
Expert Note from Tristar: Every Ultracomp formulation is purpose-built for an environment: temperature, load, duty cycle, and chemical exposure determine the best material. Tristar’s application engineers evaluate each factor before recommending a grade, ensuring optimal service life and zero lubrication failures.
Why Choose Ultracomp Bearings
Ultracomp composites outperform metal bearings in dirty, corrosive, and high-load environments by eliminating grease points and preventing corrosion-related failure. They offer:
- High load capacity with low wear rates
- Maintenance-free, dry-running performance
- Resistance to shock, grit, and moisture
- Dimensional stability even under high stress and humidity
- Corrosion and chemical resistance ideal for marine and industrial use
Learn More About Ultracomp
Want to see Ultracomp in action?
- Explore our Ultracomp Case Studies for real-world results.
- Watch our technical videos to see how prepreg manufacturing enhances bearing performance.
- Submit an Engineering Worksheet to receive a material recommendation for your application.
