SKF Y-bearing units perform under extreme temperatures

There are two series of the Y-bearing units available: the VA201 range for applications where operating temperatures are between -40ºC and +250ºC; and the VA228 series for even more challenging operating environments of between -150ºC and +350ºC.

In each case, the Y-bearings supplied inside the housing units feature a specially designed spherical outer diameter; this corresponds exactly to the concave seating face inside the unit, enabling alignment errors of up to ±5º to be compensated, reducing installation time and optimising equipment performance. Furthermore, the bearings themselves, which are capable of withstanding shaft speeds of up to 100rev/min, feature highly efficient seals designed both to protect the bearings and prevent the leakage of lubricants.

The VA228 bearings feature a specially developed coronet cage, constructed from graphite materials, which effectively act as the lubricant for extended periods of operation, eliminating the need for conventional greases. This makes the bearings an environmentally friendly option, as no harmful fumes or gases are produced even at extreme temperatures.

The VA201 series bearings, for comparatively less demanding applications, utilise a conventional pressed steel cage. This is filled with a high temperature lubricating paste made from a mixture of polyalkylene glycol and graphite to offer excellent lubricating properties.

In addition, the Y-bearing units are coated with zinc and yellow chromate for added protection against corrosion, while each housing bore is coated with lubricating paste and designed so that the effects of shaft or housing misalignment can easily be eliminated regardless of temperature variations.

The units can also be specified with bore diameters of between 30mm and 60mm and can be supplied as a Plummer block assembly or with square or oval flanges, making them an extremely versatile solution. The Y-bearing units are ideal for use in bakeries, ovens and a diverse range of other food and beverage processes that involve the heating or boiling of products.