Differentiation and maintenance between metal linear bearings and plastic linear bearings

Differentiation and maintenance between metal linear bearings and plastic linear bearings

Linear bearings are widely used in industrial production, with advantages such as low friction, good stability, high accuracy, fast movement, and extended mechanical service life. For example, we commonly use machining machinery. Among them, metal linear bearings and plastic linear bearings are more common. So how should these two types of bearings be selected and what should be paid attention to during maintenance?

All linear bearings operate on the same principle. We further distinguish between metal linear bearings and plastic linear bearings, as there are differences in the friction mode between the bearing and the cylindrical shaft, the contact mode between the bearing and the cylindrical shaft, and the application scenarios between the two.

Metal linear bearings have rolling friction, and there is point contact between the bearing and the cylindrical shaft, so metal linear bearings are more suitable for use in low load high-speed motion scenarios; Plastic linear bearings have self-lubricating properties, with sliding friction between the bearing and the cylindrical shaft and surface contact between the two. Therefore, plastic linear bearings are more suitable for high load, medium and low speed movements.

In order to maximize the performance of linear bearings, there are differences in the maintenance methods between metal linear bearings and plastic linear bearings in daily use. The key to maintenance of metal linear bearings lies in lubrication and friction. Inject anti-corrosion oil into the bearing content. If lubricating with grease, first remove the anti-corrosion oil with kerosene or organic solvent, air dry, and then add lubricating grease. The maintenance of plastic linear bearings should be considered. As the sliding film inside the plastic linear bearing is made of self-lubricating plastic, it does not require additional oil supply and maintenance during use. Moreover, due to the fact that plastic linear bearings have a chip removal groove, even if the bearing or shaft is covered with dust, maintenance is not necessary. Dust will automatically be carried out of the chip removal groove during movement, Only when the sliding film wears out and fails, can the internal sliding film be replaced directly.

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