Design Alternatives

Tapered bearings can be provided. The taper can be accomplished by using a tapered steel plate (Fig. 1) or, for slight tapers, by tapering the elastomer layers. Special loadings can sometimes be met by inclined mounting of bearings.

A particularly common variation is shown in Fig. 2. This hybrid elastomeric/sliding bearing provides a stainless-steel-on-PTFE slip plane on top of a conventional elastomeric bearing.

Daily movements are taken within the elastomer; greater movements cause greater shear force in the elastomer, which overcomes the friction at the PTFE/stainless steel interface, thereby accommodating these greater, less frequent movements through sliding.

Customized ancillary plates (or “load” plates) can be vulcanized-bonded to bearings to provide specialized mounting and anchoring systems (See Figs. A through C). They can be shaped and/or drilled to most requirements. If they are to be welded in place, they must be detailed to mitigate excessive heat transfer to the elastomer.

Our engineering staff will be pleased to advise you on any special project application or requirements.