PTFE bearings
High load capacity and maintenance-free
PTFE bearings are ideal for applications with high loads and moderate speeds. The distinctive feature of these plain bearings is that they are maintenance-free. PTFE bearings are produced according to ISO 3547.
Materials
PTFE bearings are made with a steel or bronze backing as standard. A stainless steel backing is available on request. A sintered bronze layer is applied to the backing. This layer is provided with a PTFE-based self-lubricating lead-free sliding surface. The bronze intermediate layer ensures efficient heat dissipation and makes for a strong joint between the backing and the sliding surface. The steel backing has a layer of tin to prevent corrosion.
Lubrication
During a short run-in period, part of the run-in layer, the PTFE mixture, is transferred to the counter-material. During the run-in period of the PTFE bearing, the bearing surface usually takes on a gray/green color. The characteristic low friction and wear values are obtained at the end of the run-in period. Adding oil or other non-corrosive fluids can enhance the bearing's performance.
Cross-section of PTFE bearings
Advantages
Main advantages of PTFE bearings include:
- Self-lubricating
- Maintenance-free
- High load capacity
- Low friction coefficient
- Minimal bearing play
- Operating temperature up to 250°C
Applications
PTFE bearings are best suited to applications with high loads and requiring self-lubricating operation. Common applications are:
- Elevators
- Hydraulics
- Textile machines
- Butterfly valves
- Consumer electronics
Specification overview
| Properties | TU (Steel) | TU-B (Bronze) | TU-I (Stainless steel) |
| Max. load (Dyn/stat), N/mm2 | 140 / 250 | 140 / 140 | 140 / 250 |
| Max. sliding speed m/s | 2.5 | 2.5 | 2.5 |
| Max. PV value N/mm2 x m/s | 1.8 | 1.8 | 1.8 |
| Temperature range, oC | -200 / +280 | -200 / +280 | -200 / +280 |
| Shaft tolerance | f7 - h8 | f7 - h8 | f7 - h8 |
| Housing tolerance | H7 | H7 | H7 |
| Shaft roughness | Ra < 0.4 | Ra < 0.4 | Ra < 0.4 |
| Shaft hardness | HB > 200 | HB > 200 | HB > 200 |
Download brochure
You will find everything about our range of plain bearings in THN’s plain bearing brochure. From an overview of the plain bearings, an overview of the specifications, to installation instructions and complete dimension tables.
Customer service
Are you looking for plain bearings and you want direct contact with one of our plain bearing specialists? Give us a call, we’ll be happy to help.