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Fluorogold® Slide Bearings
FAQs
- Why should the upper element be larger than the lower element?
- What is the maximum slide speed for the Fluorogold® system?
- Can Fluorogold® operate in a corrosive environment?
- How many cycles (movements) can the Fluorogold® bearing system withstand?
- Do you recommend a grease or other lubricant to use with this system?
- Can I have the Fluorogold® sliding against a Carbon Steel plate or structural shape?
- What is the Coefficient of Friction for the Fluorogold® Slide Bearing system?
- What sizes of bearing pads do you keep on the shelf?
- How quickly can I get my bearings?
- How do I get design help?
Why should the upper element be larger than the lower element?
This serves two purposes, the first being protection of the lower element from anything falling on to the slide surface and reducing the life of the system. The second reason is that the load bearing area is constant throughout the entire range of motion, which keeps the bearing pressure constant.
What is the maximum slide speed for the Fluorogold® system?
While there are no guidelines for speed of motion, all test data that we have is based on slide speeds of one and twelve inches per minute.
Can Fluorogold® operate in a corrosive environment?
The Fluorogold® itself is very chemically inert. Very few substances have shown any reaction on the slide surface. If corrosion is a concern, such as seawater, industrial waste, etc., then we recommend using an alternate backing material such as Stainless Steel, Aluminum, or Galvanized Carbon Steel.
How many cycles (movements) can the Fluorogold® bearing system withstand?
Since Fluorogold® is a self-lubricating PTFE product; there is no actual "design wear" during normal operation. We have done tests on bearings up to 30,000 cycles with no visible deterioration of the slide surface. The main concern is proper installation and protection of the slide surface.
Do you recommend a grease or other lubricant to use with this system?
Greases and other lubricants are not normally necessary because Fluorogold® is a self-lubricating PTFE system. You can put grease on the bearings, but be aware that some kinds can actually attract dust and other contaminants, or can crystallize, which could damage the slide surface and reduce the life of the bearing.
Can I have the Fluorogold® sliding against a Carbon Steel plate or structural shape?
We recommend the use of a Fluorogold® to Fluorogold® slide surface, but you can use a piece of polished (2b finish or better) Stainless Steel. These are the only surfaces we have performed coefficient of friction testing on, and Carbon steel tends to pit and rust over time, which would damage the slide surface.
What is the Coefficient of Friction for the Fluorogold® Slide Bearing system?
The Coefficient of Friction varies depending on the PSI loading that the bearing is under. As long as the bearing pressure is between 75PSI and 2000PSI, then the coefficient will be below .1 (10%).
What sizes of bearing pads do you keep on the shelf?
We do not stock any standard sizes, because every application is different. We do, however keep stock sheets of varying sizes on hand and can ship these or cut custom pieces from them and ship in a matter of days.
How quickly can I get my bearings?
We can ship most orders in 4-5 business days, but all inquiries are quoted on an individual basis.