Self-lubricating bearing

A self-lubricating sintered bearing is a metallic component with high porosity (20-25% in volume), impregnated in a lubricant oil. The oil contained in the porosity provides a constant lubrication between bearing and shaft, so the system does not need any additional external lubricant. Self-lubrication allows this type of sliding bearing to work under hydrodynamic conditions, resulting in a very low friction coefficient. Self-lubricating sintered bearings have some advantages compared to other types of dry sliding bearings: Reliability. The constant oil presence eliminates the risk of seizure, and allows the bearing to work during thousands of hours without wear. Economy. Maintenance-free, no need for lubricants. Performance. Able to work under loads of up to 10 MPa, and speeds up to 8 m/s. The maximum working PV is is the range of 10 MPa·m/s, but can be surpassed in special cases. The dimensional precision is very high (up to IT 5 in diameter), and produces extremely low noise. AMES manufactures the self-lubricating bearings at AMES Solsona plant, which is specialised in this product. This plant includes a R&D laboratory specialised in bearings, able to provide customized solutions to their customers, in terms of material choice, oil, shapes, tolerances, and assembly method.