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Automation in Washdown Bottling
Automation in Washdown Bottling

Automation in Washdown Bottling

Automation in Washdown Bottling

Bottling equipment manufacturer’s ball bearings are a washout

A manufacturer of bottling equipment was experiencing problems with ball bearings during the process of washdown. To begin, the cleaning agent used within this washdown environment was neutralizing the lubrication from the surfaces of the linear ball bearings. As one might expect, when lubrication was stripped from the surfaces or the components, the ball bearings would then seize on the shaft. The net effect was destruction of both the bearing and the shaft. The negative effects were two-fold: the cost of replacing these parts, and the considerable downtime. Together, these issues created an overall lower production rate within the company.

The LEE Linear solution

LEE Linear plain bearings provided an effective alternative to the failing ball bearings. Our plain bearings, complete with Frelon® liners, produce a microscopic transfer of thin film, creating a smooth interaction between the bearing and shaft. This condition of Frelon riding on Frelon illustrates our bearing’s self-lubricating feature. These Simplicity linear bearings are also engineered to wipe particles from shafts, so no seals are required. As a result, frequent seizing between the bearing and shaft was eliminated.

LEE Linear results equals high customer ROI

The solution of implementing Simplicity plain bearings within this harsh bottling environment garnered a very positive customer reaction. The ability to run the bearings without lubrication, offer protection for the shafting, and extend a longer life within their washdown areas continues to provide this bottling manufacturer with an improved alternative to ball bearings. The bottom line is a reduction in overall cost associated with bearings from LEE Linear.