Waukesha Bearings applies ceramic and cermet (ceramic-metallic composite) materials to thrust and journal bearing designs to extend bearing capabilities in applications where traditional materials and polymers fall short. The extremely hard surfaces of ceramic/cermet bearings can handle corrosive materials, contaminated lubricant and temperatures beyond the limits of polymers and traditional materials.

Ceramic/cermet bearings:

Retain their mechanical properties and load carrying capacity over a wide range of temperatures, including extremely cold and hot environments
Are compatible with very thin hydrodynamic films and low-viscosity lubricants
Are resistant to most chemicals, including hydrogen sulphide and ammonia

In addition, ceramic/cermet surfaces are harder than common abrasives, such as sand, and will crush abrasive debris in the lubricant, preventing bearing damage.

Of note, the use of ceramic/cermet requires deliberate material selection for both the rotating and stationary surfaces, especially when abrasives are present or films are extremely thin.

Waukesha Bearings
www.waukbearing.com