Metal-Polymer Plain Bearings Grease Lubricated

Metal-Polymer Bearings

marginally lubricated bushings for grease or oil lubricated applications

Hydraulic cylinder bushings are designed for grease lubrication, featuring a uniform pattern of indents that serve as reservoirs for optimal lubricant distribution over the bearing surface.

Self-lubricating rolled bearings

Structural Properties and Uses of Metal-Polymer Composite Bearings and Bushings

Metal-Polymer Plain Bearings and Grease Lubricated Metal-Polymer Composite Bearings

SF-2 Composite Material:

The SF-2 is a three-layer composite bearing material designed for boundary lubrication. Its surface layer is made of tetrafluoro-modified polyoxymethylene (POM) plastic, which enhances its self-lubricating properties. This material is particularly suitable for applications involving high loads, low-speed rotary motion, oscillating movements, and frequent start-stop operations, where hydrodynamic lubrication is difficult to achieve. Common uses include thrust washers, sliders, ball seats, and similar components subjected to challenging friction conditions.

SF-2 material can operate effectively with minimal lubrication, leveraging micro grease for extended periods under boundary lubrication conditions. When used in oil-free lubrication environments, SF-2 exhibits low friction and a manageable PV (Pressure x Velocity) value. To further optimize performance, lubrication pits are often integrated into the plastic surface, and lithium-based or silicone grease is applied during assembly to maintain its lubrication.

The SF-2 material, which incorporates modified POM and spherical bronze powder, exhibits unique wear behavior. Initially, it shows very little wear during the “R stage,” but once the boundary lubrication conditions are no longer effective, wear increases. However, applying grease during this phase can significantly reduce wear and extend the life of the bearing. The advantage of SF-2 lies in its ability to operate longer between lubrication intervals—often five times longer than traditional metal materials—due to its extended “R stage.”

Metal-Polymer Plain Bearings Grease Lubricated

  • Availability

    We offer a wide range of bearing forms in both standard and custom dimensions:

    • Cylindrical Bushings / Split Bushings
    • Thrust Washers
    • Sliding Plates
    • Custom Bearings and Bushings

  • In addition to standard bushing forms, we provide tailored solutions, including:

    • Metric and imperial bushings made to order
    • Special bushing dimensions
    • Half-bushings
    • Custom shapes formed by stamping
    • Bearings with locating notches, lubrication holes, and machined grooves
    • Fully customized bushing designs

  • We ensure flexibility in manufacturing to meet unique specifications and application requirements.

Metal-Polymer Plain Bearing Material Grease Lubricated
  • Extended Service Life: Increased longevity from the high-wear-resistant bronze layer and superior overlay resistance against fatigue loading, cavitation erosion, and edge loading.
  • Reduced Noise
  • Eliminates metal-to-metal contact between the bearing and the shaft, reducing noise during operation.
  • Efficient Operation
Product Benefits
  • Ideal for Continuous Sliding and Rotation
  • Suitable for Continuous Sliding, Rotating, and Oscillating Movements
  • Easy Assembly
  • Cost-Effective System
  • Reduced Downtime and Labor Costs
  • Competitive Pricing
  • Compact One-Piece Design
  • Efficient Lubricated Operation
Metal-Polymer Bearings High Wear Resistance with Low Friction

Materials and Applications:

SF-2 composite bearings are typically backed by steel or optional copper plates (e.g., Ro 304 or 316), offering enhanced durability and wear resistance. The material is widely used in industries such as automotive chassis, forging machinery, mining, metallurgy, water conservancy, and steel rolling. Its robust performance under demanding conditions makes it a versatile choice for various mechanical applications requiring long-lasting and efficient lubrication solutions.

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Metal Composite Self-Lubricating Bearing

  • Modified POM
  • Spherical bronze powder
  • Steel back (optional copper plate Ro 304, 316)
  • Copper Plating
Metal-Polymer Plain Bearings Grease Lubricated

SF-2 Type Self-Lubricating Composite Material

SF-2 is a three-layer composite material designed for self-lubrication, featuring a surface layer made of tetrafluoro-modified polyoxymethylene (POM) plastic. This material is specifically engineered for boundary lubrication, making it ideal for high-load, low-speed rotary motion and oscillating movements. It is commonly used in bearings, thrust washers, sliders, ball seats, and other friction components that frequently open and close under load, where hydrodynamic lubrication is difficult to establish.

SF-2 material efficiently utilizes micro grease and can be maintained for extended periods without oil, operating effectively under boundary lubrication conditions. Even in fully oil-free environments, SF-2 exhibits low friction and acceptable PV (Pressure x Velocity) values. During assembly, lubrication pits are often rolled out on the plastic surface, and lithium-based or silicone grease is applied to enhance performance.

Material Composition:

  • Modified POM (Polyoxymethylene)
  • Spherical bronze powder
  • Steel back
  • Copper/Tin layer

SF-2 products are also available with various base materials to suit different operating conditions, such as bronze, stainless steel, or lead-free formulations. For example, the SF-2Y series is an environmentally friendly, lead-free option available in orange and blue colors.

Wear Behavior and Maintenance: SF-2 material has a unique wear pattern, where wear is minimal during the initial “R stage.” After this phase, as the boundary lubrication condition diminishes, wear may increase. However, refueling with grease at this stage significantly reduces wear and extends the bearing’s lifespan. The SF-2 material has the advantage of requiring only one refueling during the R stage, and its operational lifespan between refueling is approximately five times longer than that of traditional metal materials.

Applications: SF-2 is widely used in a variety of industries and applications, including:

  • Pedal assemblies
  • Balance bushings
  • Brake calipers
  • Steering kingpin bushings
  • Truck tailgate bushings
  • Cranes and truck-mounted cranes
  • Forest machinery
  • Packaging machinery
  • Construction machinery
  • Hydraulic motors
  • Agricultural and mining machinery
  • Metallurgical machinery
  • Water conservancy machinery
  • Automotive and locomotive components
  • Steel rolling industry

SF-2 bearings are a reliable and cost-effective solution for demanding applications requiring extended service life and reduced maintenance needs.