Carbon Composite Cuts Bearing Energy Costs

CirCompGmbH, a German-based manufacturer of fiber composite components, has developeda new generation of carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) friction bearings.

They areoptimized for resistance against shock and wear, extending service life.

"By usingthe friction bearings, our customers will benefit from reduced energy costs andlower maintenance costs," says Ralph Funck, CEO, CirComp.

PEEK polymerfrom Victrex was selected to replacethermosets as the matrix material in the design of the DW 710 bearings. One ofthe requirements is high temperature performance, with glass transition temperaturesranging between 143 -162C (289 - 324F) and melting temperatures between 343 - 387C(639 -729F). The application also requires outstanding wear and chemicalresistance as well as high mechanical strength.

CirComp saysit reduced the coefficient of friction and the bearing friction of the newthermoplastic continuous carbon fiber reinforced bearing by 28 percent and wearreduction by as much as 68 percent when compared with thermoset bearings.

According toCirComp, the measured coefficient of friction of the friction bearing is alsoabout 25 percent lower than traditional thermoset continuous carbon fiberreinforced bearings with carbon nanotubes (CNT) filling. As a result, less energyis used.

Thecombination of carbon fibers and PEEK polymer provides dimensional stability upto 260C (500F), making the new friction bearing well suited for use in harshenvironments.

"Inaddition, DW 710 friction bearings provide excellent dry runningcharacteristics and can be used in operation after lubrication system failuremaking them an ideal solution for use in pumps and construction machinery aswell as in mechanical engineering and shipbuilding or in offshore and onshorefacilities to reduce maintenance and increase reliability," says Funck.

CirComp usesCNC controlled filament winding processes to produce a variety of components,such as tubes, shafts, tension bars, rollers, pressure vessels, masts,separating cans, torsion shafts and friction bearings made of advancedcomposite materials. Fibers used include carbon, glass, aramid and basalt.