Bearing metals

In mechanical engineering and drive technology, plain bearing alloys are used in particular in industrial gearboxes, presses, rolling mills and compressors. Here it is important to have bearings that can withstand permanent loads while minimizing friction loss - especially in continuous operation or under changing load conditions.

In energy and turbine construction, for example in wind power, hydroelectric or gas power plants, bearing metals ensure the reliable functioning of rotors, axial and radial bearings as well as auxiliary units. In wind energy in particular, they are an essential component of the main bearing in the nacelle - a highly stressed area in which temperature, pressure and environmental influences interact.

The aerospace industry uses bearing metals in turbochargers, auxiliary power units (APU) and actuators. Particularly lightweight, heat-resistant and at the same time highly resilient materials are required here - an ideal field of application for high-purity, tin-based bearing metals with a finely tuned alloy structure.

Plain bearing alloys also play a key role in the field of transportation and railroad technology - for example in traction motors, locomotive bearings, swivel units and brake mechanics. The materials must reliably compensate for extreme load changes, vibrations and high speeds.

In the construction industry and in heavy-duty technology, bearing metals are used for rotating bearings in slewing cranes, hydraulic systems, cable winches or lifting equipment. Variants with high compressive strength, good emergency running properties and stable casting behavior are particularly in demand here - even with large component cross-sections.

Finally, in pump, valve and fitting technology, bearing metals protect moving components in chemical plants, refineries, energy centers or cooling water pumps. Here, media-resistant, low-wear alloys are required that function reliably even when there is a lack of lubricant or changing temperatures.