A range of corrosion-resistant, lubricant-free, polymer bearings are said by SKF to be 80% lighter than their steel equivalents and can have balls in polymer, SS, glass or other materials
SKF has released polymer ball bearings, which offer a lightweight and lubricant free alternative to conventional steel bearings. The range offers resistance to corrosion and chemical damage, making the bearings ideal for applications subject to moisture or aggressive chemicals, said SKF. The bearings consist of polymer rings and cages, and can be specified with balls made of stainless steel, glass, polymer or other materials.
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 15 April 2008 at 8.00am (UK)
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Each of the bearings offers low friction and resistance to wear and fatigue, providing a long, low maintenance service life.
* Lighter weight - the latest bearings weigh up to 80% less than conventional all-steel designs.
They also have a high strength to weight ratio that makes them a vital component for minimising the weight of equipment without sacrificing performance.
Polymer is an electrical insulator, so the bearings are immune to many of the problems that can affect steel bearings in applications subject to electrical currents.
The polymer bearings are available as the following.
* Single row designs with integrated cages for minimised friction.
* Full complement thrust bearings with stainless steel or glass balls arranged alternately with balls made of the same polymer as the rings to minimise wear.
Intrinsically hygienic and resistant to corrosion and chemicals, SKF told manufacturingtalk that the bearings are ideal for a diverse range of sectors, including the food and beverage, medical, HVAC, chemical, textile and pharmaceutical industries.
The latest range of polymer bearings are part of an extensive range of bearing products and hub units from SKF and are supported by the company's global manufacturing, design and customer support services.


