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PTFE Slide Bearings
PTFE slide bearings are used to solve the problems of movement caused by temperature change and differential material thermal expansion, settlement and natural forces encountered by high winds and even seismic activity.
Typical applications include:
A PTFE slide bearing normally comprises of an upper element and a lower element, which operate by sliding against one another. The upper element is generally larger than the lower element by the amount of the anticipated movement. This ensures that the lower element is subjected to uniform load throughout motion and excludes foreign matter from the sliding interface.
We offer PTFE slide bearings in a range of configurations although each is designed to suit the specific application. A typical slide bearing element consists of 2.5mm thick reinforced or virgin PTFE hot cure factory bonded under controlled conditions of temperature and pressure to a 3mm thick steel backing plate for welding to the installation. Alternative material thicknesses can be supplied.
Substantial deviations from parallel or rotational movement of the structure can be accommodated by incorporating an elastomeric element within the PTFE slide bearing.
PTFE slide bearings are able to operate through a temperature range from -195°C (-319°F) to 260°C (500°F).
PTFE slide bearings employ either a specially compounded reinforced PTFE or virgin PTFE at the operating surface. Reinforced PTFE and virgin PTFE are capable of accommodating loads of 18 MPa (184 kg/cm2) and 7 MPa (71 kg/cm2) respectively. The load bearing capacity of these materials can be increased by containing them in a recessed steel backing plate.
For special considerations or difficult conditions, please contact us for assistance.
PTFE slide bearings can be fixed to the installation by full welding, tack welding, mortar embedment or bolting. The appropriate slide bearing configuration should be selected to suit the method of installation. Care should be taken to adequately protect the surface of the PTFE during installation.
If you have any difficulty in specifying your PTFE slide bearings please contact us for assistance.
Pipe lines
Heat exchangers
Pressure vessels
Storage tanks
Industrial machinery
Buildings and bridges
We offer PTFE slide bearings in a range of configurations although each is designed to suit the specific application. A typical slide bearing element consists of 2.5mm thick reinforced or virgin PTFE hot cure factory bonded under controlled conditions of temperature and pressure to a 3mm thick steel backing plate for welding to the installation. Alternative material thicknesses can be supplied.
Substantial deviations from parallel or rotational movement of the structure can be accommodated by incorporating an elastomeric element within the PTFE slide bearing.
PTFE slide bearings are able to operate through a temperature range from -195°C (-319°F) to 260°C (500°F).
PTFE slide bearings employ either a specially compounded reinforced PTFE or virgin PTFE at the operating surface. Reinforced PTFE and virgin PTFE are capable of accommodating loads of 18 MPa (184 kg/cm2) and 7 MPa (71 kg/cm2) respectively. The load bearing capacity of these materials can be increased by containing them in a recessed steel backing plate.
For special considerations or difficult conditions, please contact us for assistance.
Installation of PTFE Slide Bearings
PTFE Slide Bearings Selection Guide
Calculate the overall load of the structure as this will indicate the total area of the PTFE slide bearing required at an appropriate temperature and pressure.
Consider the function and rigidity of the structure to determine the quantity and positions of the PTFE slide bearings.
Take account of any unusual conditions that will affect the PTFE slide bearings during operation, such as the temperature at the sliding interface, angular misalignment and the need for acoustic or vibration damping.
The type of adhesive used is determined by the temperature range at which the PTFE slide bearings will be operating. We ask therefore that this information is specified on all enquiries.
Determine the most suitable method of fixing the PTFE slide bearings to the installation.
Consider the operating environment and select the type of steel for the backing plates accordingly.
If you have any difficulty in specifying your PTFE slide bearings please contact us for assistance.
Advantages of PTFE Slide Bearings:
PTFE has the lowest coefficient of friction of any solid material and there is no stick / slip action.
Operating temperature ranges from -195°C (-320°F) to 260°C (500°F).
The life of PTFE is indefinite as it is unaffected by chemicals and weather.
Maintenance is not required. Capable of operating completely dry as PTFE will never cold weld to itself.
Ease of installation.
Shear value of the bond exceeds that of the PTFE.
Far less bulky than alternative assemblies.
PTFE is unaffected by water as the moisture absorption is less than 0.01%.
Not subject to fatigue failure.
Provides electrical and thermal insulation thereby preventing galvanic corrosion and reducing heat loss.
Vibration dampening.
Able to absorb small particles without increasing the coefficient of friction.
PTFE is chemically inert.
Able to accommodate some misalignment.
Related Industry Sectors
Related Case Studies
Petrolium pipeline utilising PTFE slide bearings
Suspension bridge utilising PTFE/elastometric slide bearings
PTFE Slide Bearings