Flange bearings are essential components for a variety of machinery and structures, allowing for rotation between two parts or pieces of equipment. Apart from ensuring reliable motion transmission, flange bearings are also used to protect the shaft and to boost structural integrity. Selecting the right type of flange bearing often depends upon a thorough comprehension of the different types of bearings, their key specifications, and their applications.
Types of Flange Bearings
There are several types of flange bearings available, including the following:
- Pillow block bearings – These bearings are housed within a protective casing, with one flange at the top and bottom. Pillow block bearings are mounted on a base, and feature a central threaded hole for fastening.
- Four-bolt flange bearings – Generally featuring a solid, cast-iron housing, four-bolt flange bearings are installed with four bolts. They come with sealing rings for added protection against dust and debris.
- Two-bolt flange bearings – As the name suggests, two-bolt flange bearings require two bolts for mounting. Unlike four-bolt flange bearings, they don’t come with seals. For that reason, they’re usually used with rotating parts like pulleys and sheaves.
Key Specifications for Flange Bearings
When it comes to flange bearings, you should be aware of the following key specifications:
- Material – Flange bearings are made from various materials, such as steel, brass, stainless steel, and plastic. Selecting the right material often depends upon the type of application and operating environment.
- Dimension and fit – Before installing a flange bearing, it’s important to check the dimension and fit. The bearing’s inner dimension must be the same size as the shaft, while the outer dimension should be larger than the housing bore depth.
- Lubrication capabilities – All flange bearings come with lubrication grooves, which allow them to absorb lubricating oils. Generally, bearings with many grooves can accommodate more lubrication, thus reducing friction.
- Load capacity – This specification refers to the type and amount of load the flange bearing can support. Bearings with high load capacity are often on the heavier side, but they are capable of accommodating heavier machinery.
Flange Bearing Applications
Flange bearings are used in industry machinery and structures, including the following:
- Industrial – From timber processing to metalworking, flange bearings are commonly used in industrial applications.
- Agricultural – For agricultural machinery, like tillers, tractors, and seeders, flange bearings enable precise and reliable motion transmission.
- General engineering – From fans to motors, flange bearings are found in a diverse range of general engineering applications.
In conclusion, flange bearings are important components in a wide variety of machines. In order to select the best type for your application, it’s essential to understand the different types of bearings, their key specifications, and their applications.