Corrosion resistant polymer bearings from SKF are 80% lighter than steel

The bearings consist of polymer rings and cages, and can be specified with balls made of stainless steel, glass, polymer or other materials, depending on the characteristics required. Each of the bearings offers low friction and resistance to wear and fatigue, providing a long, low maintenance service life.

Perhaps as importantly, the latest bearings also weigh up to 80% less than conventional all-steel designs, with a high strength to weight ratio that makes them a vital component for design engineers looking to minimise the weight of equipment without sacrificing performance. Furthermore, as polymer is an electrical insulator, the bearings are immune to many of the problems that can affect steel bearings in applications subject to electrical currents, extending maintenance intervals considerably.

The polymer bearings are available as single row designs with integrated cages for minimised friction, or full complement thrust bearings with stainless steel or glass balls arranged alternately with balls made of the same polymer as the rings to minimise wear.

Intrinsically hygienic and resistant to corrosion and chemicals, the bearings are ideal for a diverse range of sectors, including the food and beverage, medical, HVAC, chemical, textile and pharmaceutical industries.

The latest range of polymer bearings are part of an extensive range of bearing products and hub units from SKF and are supported by the company’s global manufacturing, design and customer support services.