A composite bushing aims to combine the best qualities of multiple materials. A steel backing, for example, increases strength, stiffness, and durability but lacks the necessary tribological characteristics to function as a bushing on its own.
Today’s market offers a variety of bearing and bushing alternatives, including metal, polymer, and composite. In this article, we’ll take a brief look at composite bushings, covering what constitutes a composite bearing and how its performance contrasts with that of other kinds of bearings and bushings. The composite, self-lubricating bushings from Sleeve Bearings are made of one of two types of fundamental materials:
PTFE-Based Metal-Polymer Materials (DU bushings)
Thermoplastic-Based Metal-Polymer Materials (DX bushings or POM composite bushings)
In applications where parts are subjected to strong agitation and the force of friction results in wear, lubrication-free bushings are employed. These self-lubricating bushings can endure high temperatures and have high load-bearing tolerances. Below, each series is covered in more detail.
Benefits of Composite Bearings
Our metal-backed, PTFE-based (polytetrafluoroethylene) polymer bushing materials share a similar structural design that consists of a porous bronze sinter layer adhered to a steel backing. The filled PTFE bushing lining is impregnated and placed on top of the bronze sinter layer. The bronze sinter layer creates a strong mechanical link between the backing and the bushing lining while also adding mechanical strength to the steel backing. Thermal conductivity is enhanced and dimensional stability is promoted by this structure. These PTFE linings have a very low friction rate.
A composite bushing aims to bring together the greatest qualities of many materials. For instance, a steel backing increases strength, stiffness, and durability but lacks the necessary tribological characteristics to function as a bushing on its own.
- Stiffness, strength, and low friction
The low friction of PTFE or POM increases the strength and stiffness characteristics when paired with a steel backing. By shielding the metallic layer from corrosion and undesirable chemical reactions, the use of a polymer layer like PTFE also addresses these problems (s). - Many composite bearings are dry-running by nature.
For applicants who are sensitive to contamination or other situations where grease could be a concern, it can be highly crucial that they are constructed so that no grease or lubrication is needed. When properly engineered, composite bearings can offer extremely low friction, almost eliminate stick-slip problems, and need less break-away torque. - Dimensional Stability
Dimensional stability is another issue that composite bearings may effectively handle.
Some polymers are particularly prone to dimensional changes caused by water absorption or responses to temperature changes. Composites can help greatly lessen these issues.
A composite bushing aims to combine the best qualities of several materials. A steel backing, for example, increases strength, stiffness, and durability but lacks the necessary tribological properties to function as a bushing on its own.
