Gunmetal bearings and washers are industrial components valued for their excellent resistance to wear, corrosion, and friction. Made from a type of bronze, they are well-suited for heavy-duty applications that involve high loads and low speeds, particularly in marine environments and heavy machinery.
Types of gunmetal bearings
- Sleeve bearings: Also known as plain bearings, these are cylindrical components used to support rotating shafts. They are highly durable, easy to install, and are commonly used in industrial equipment, automotive engines, and heavy machinery.
- Example product: for industrial applications, available on IndiaMART.
- Thrust bearings: Designed to handle axial loads, which are forces acting parallel to the shaft. They often consist of multiple gunmetal washers and are used in gear systems, automotive transmissions, and marine propulsion.
- Example product: Gun Metal Thrust Washer Crankshaft, for Japanese vehicle engines, available on IndiaMART.
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- Flanged bearings: These include a flange or raised lip for secure mounting and additional support. They are ideal for applications that require precise shaft alignment, such as in conveyor systems.
- Self-lubricating bearings: These bearings are impregnated with a solid lubricant, such as graphite, to provide continuous lubrication. They are ideal for applications where external lubrication is difficult or impossible.
- Split bearings: These can be separated into two halves, which allows for easier installation and maintenance, especially for shafts that cannot be removed easily. They are typically used in heavy machinery.
Types of gunmetal washers
- Thrust washers: These are a type of plain washer specifically designed to handle and support axial loads. They are often used alongside gunmetal thrust bearings in applications with parallel forces on a rotating shaft, such as in crankshafts and automotive engines.
- Example product: Polished Gun Metal Engine Thrust Washer, available on IndiaMART.
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- Plain washers: These are used to distribute the load of a threaded fastener, preventing damage to the surface and providing a larger bearing surface area. Gunmetal provides extra corrosion resistance for this purpose in specific industrial settings.
Key properties and applications
Gunmetal is an alloy of copper, tin, and zinc, and its specific properties make it suitable for a variety of demanding applications.
Properties
- Corrosion resistance: Gunmetal alloys are resistant to corrosion from steam and saltwater, making them a good choice for marine and steam engine applications.
- Wear resistance: Gunmetal holds up well against friction and wear, particularly in high-load, low-speed applications.
- Low friction: The alloy's composition, coupled with its self-lubricating capabilities, minimizes friction between moving parts, which improves efficiency and reduces heat.
- Excellent castability: Gunmetal casts and machines well, which allows for precision-engineered components.
Applications
- Marine industry: Used in ship propeller shafts, pumps, valves, and rudder systems due to its corrosion resistance.
- Automotive industry: Found in engine assemblies, gearboxes, and crankshafts.
- Heavy machinery: Applied in construction equipment, mining machinery, cranes, and earth-movers.
- Industrial pumps and valves: Used in pump and valve bodies for handling steam, hydraulic fluids, and chemicals.
- Oil and gas sector: Applied in drilling rigs and valve systems that are exposed to harsh conditions.