Flange bearings, also called base or frame bearings, are essential components for most machines and equipment. They play a crucial role in transmitting loads that occur from a machine’s operation. This guide will tell you the all you need to know about flange bearings and how they work.
What are Flange Bearings?
Flange bearings are support components used to connect a moving part of a machine or equipment to its base or frame. They are mainly found in vertical shaft drives, conveyor systems, cranes, and all sorts of machinery. They look like rings that are mounted on the base/frame or body of machine and the shaft they are attached to moves in it.
Types of Flange Bearings
Flange bearings come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and designs to fit many applications:
- Thruster Bearings: These are designed specifically for applications that need high tilt rigidity. These bearings help support high radial and axial loads.
- Split Flange Bearings: Known as pillow block bearings, these are ideal for difficult installation places like narrow spaces.
- One-piece Bearings: One-piece bearings are designed to easily fit any shaft size, and they are mainly used in high-speed applications.
- Precision Bearings: Precision bearings are designed for accurate shaft and bearing alignment. They are mostly used when accuracy is essential.
What are the Benefits of Flange Bearings?
Flange bearings provide many benefits including:
- Reduced vibration due to its metal-to-metal contact feature.
- Easy to clean and maintain since it can simply be wiped or sprayed off.
- Lower noise levels due to its superior mechanical design.
- Increased surface contact because of its ribs and grooves, resulting to lower wear.
- Excellent weight support.
Conclusion
Flange bearings are important components used in many machines and equipment. They provide crucial support and rely on accuracy to function properly. While they are essential, they require regular maintenance to ensure they are running properly. With the right maintenance and care, they can help your machines last longer and perform better.
