For nearly 20 years, TriStar’s Ultracomp bearing products have been used in a variety of applications on ferry docking systems around the world. The systems vary in design, ranging from simple single-wide drop-down ramps on cable ferries all the way to massive hydraulically controlled ramps that can be both dock and ferry mounted.
Typical applications include lift-and-tilt applications for mounting pins on the ramps, hydraulic cylinder rod ends, and slide pads for bump locations and post bearings. Many designs utilize large steel sheaves for cables, with Ultracomp replacing lubricated bronze and ball bearings in the sheaves with great success.
What Makes Ultracomp Work So Well in These Applications?
- Unusually high loads with the potential for shock conditions are easily handled by Ultracomp composite technology.
- The environment is often salt water, spray or even salt fog. Ultracomp has passed Navy salt air and fog testing for ship and dock service. It also excels in freshwater lake dock systems.
- Ultracomp is non-corroding and dielectrically dead, preventing any cathodic reaction between hardware components.
- These materials are self-lubricating so no grease is required – ever!
- Ideal for high frequency use in car and passenger ferry systems – long life can be expected if properly designed.
- Compatible with all hardware conditions – mating metals, coatings, plating, etc.
- The material has a broad temperature range, from cryogenic to +285°F, which covers all known operating conditions.
More Benefits of Ultracomp
- Doesn’t require grease which means less maintenance – both scheduled or work stops.
- Capable of high compressive loads and PV ratings, which are typical in ship and dock-side conditions.
- Ultracomp is UV stable and operates in all temperature conditions, with no degradation due to outdoor service.
- Easy to design, machine, and install.
- 15X stronger than bronze.
- Non-toxic to workers and the environment.
What is the Procedure for Design?
We suggest you contact TriStar via our Ask the Expert Form. (Filling out one of the engineering worksheets linked on that page will result in the quickest response.) TriStar engineers will then reach out for further discussions on your required fits and finishes.
Our experience shows that many of the dock structural applications use flame-cut steel plates for mounting some of the ramp pivot bearings. This can get a little tricky so that does require some consultation. Once we agree on the conditions and fits, drawings are produced for sign-off and our sales department will follow up with quotes and delivery times.
Our Engineering Experts Can Help Choose the Right Ultracomp Grade
Ultracomp is available in several grades utilizing PTFE, MoS2 and Graphite as lubrication. The best grade for your application will be selected based on environmental conditions, loads, cycle frequency, and service needs. Look to TriStar for your marine designs, whether it be dock, deck or any other place where corrosion, lubrication, and wear life are critical factors.
Whatever your application, we encourage you to reach out. We have the answers you need!