High heat applications challenge the life and durability of conventional bearings. In
cold, wet environments, bearings often cannot hold lubrication. Use of Graphalloy bearings can solve
these problems and, as a result, reduce downtime and lost production.
Examples of Graphalloy Successful Case Histories
Oven Manufacturer Solves Major Maintenance Problem
A bakery oven OEM was using rolling element bearings on the conveyor circuit of a
tunnel oven with a temperature range from 450°F to 650°F. To reach these bearings, mechanics
would have to crawl over the oven belt when the machine was shut down, thus causing damage and
presenting a safety risk. Another issue was caustic washdowns that rusted the ball bearings. In some
applications, bearing life was as little as 2 weeks. They were researching solutions when they
discovered GRAPHALLOY. Graphalloy self-lubricating bushing materials thrive in high temperature
environments, handle caustic washdowns, and are maintenance-free. These Graphalloy bushings in
stainless steel pillow block housings have been running in this application for several years with no
issues. Read More Here.
Seafood Freezer Conveyor Extends Bearing Life by 30x
A seafood processing plant in the Southeast was running a conveyor in their freezer
area to "flash-freeze" fresh seafood. The environment is a difficult one: The temperature is
cold (28°F/-2°C) and wet and the system requires frequent washdown. The conveyor bearings were
being replaced every month. The plant maintenance superintendent contacted GRAPHALLOY about the
problem. It was determined that the current bearings could not hold lubrication under these conditions
and, as a result, breakdowns were occurring frequently. Graphalloy 4-bolt flange block assemblies were
installed and have been running successfully for more than five years! Read More Here.
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