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FEATURE BEARINGS, SEALS & GASKETS


Specifying bearingS for extreme environmentS


Choosing the right bearing for an use in an application where the


environment is described as ‘extreme’ or ‘aggressive’ requires careful consideration. Here, Carter Bearings looks into the solutions available


A


longside technical support and a clear understanding of the challenges, reliable components are key for machinery that


will be used in extreme environments, such as those found in the nuclear research, aerospace and semiconductor industries. Here, the demands placed upon components are often classified as ‘extreme’ and overall performance regarded as ‘cutting edge’. Furthermore, the ability to overcome supply issues – especially with semiconductors – is a major factor in the demand for more automated processes. With bearings a key component in such


systems, Carter Manufacturing offers a range of solutions designed for use in very aggressive environments. These include: thin section bearings, ceramic bearings, plastic bearings, stainless steel cam followers and linear bearings. Traditionally, bearings are manufactured from


52100 Chrome Steel, but this is limited in its ability to be used in applications where severe environmental conditions exist, such as where there are extreme high or low temperatures. Semiconductor manufacturing is seen as one of the most aggressive processes, so the choice of bearing ring materials is crucial.


bearing optionS


In applications such as these, the bearings will need to withstand highly corrosive liquids, gases and plasmas, often at elevated temperatures or in vacuum conditions. To help, Carter offers various bearing options made from stainless steels such as 440C and 316, as well as the more exotic nitrogen-enriched stainless steels,


4 DESIGN SOLUTIONS MAY 2022 8


such as Cronidur 30 or XD15NW. Also available from the company are plastic


– PEEK, Acetal and PTFE – bearings which have the ability to operate while submerged or exposed to liquids with suspended particles. Such bearings have high heat capability (typically 180˚F to 450˚F) and are lube-free. This helps to minimise maintenance and reduces the risk of contaminating the environment. Hybrid and ceramic bearings, meanwhile, are


said to provide mechanical benefits that were otherwise thought impossible. Carter offers bearings using these high performance materials backed up by years of experience in pushing these bearings to their limits, meaning they can cope better with the combination of reduced lubrication, higher speeds and higher loads. With the semiconductor industry growing,


so too does the need for even more automated processes, which increases the need for the right components to maximise production volumes. One example is the use of stainless steel Mini Cam Followers, which feature a rigid shaft with a built-in needle roller bearing. Semiconductor manufacturing equipment often has limited space, so the components used in these applications need to balance performance with space constraints. Despite needing a smaller footprint, mini cam


followers are designed to handle greater loads and provide optimum performance. With a thick outer ring and the addition of a shaft, mini cam followers can handle heavy radial loads and intermittent shock loads; while the use of a soft- core stud, like a dampener, means these parts


can handle extreme shock and therefore minimise the risks of part fracture. With corrosion resistance important in semi-conductor manufacturing, cam followers in stainless steel are the preferred option. Furthermore, precision is crucial within the


semiconductor industry, and in many cases the workpiece must translate motion during production. Within a vacuum chamber, material out-gassing must be eliminated without compromising performance. According to Carter, its stainless steel linear bearings are ideal for vacuum compatible motorised translation stages and actuators. These can be provided with ceramic rolling elements, with special dry film or vacuum compatible lubrications. To further meet application requirements, customised solutions can also be provided.


Carter Bearings T: 01865 821720 www.carterbearings.co.uk/bearings/ thin-section-bearings


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