PTFE bearing pads are essential components in structural engineering, particularly for bridges and large-scale constructions, due to their low friction, high load-bearing capacity, and durability. The primary types include pure PTFE, glass-filled, and carbon-filled variants, each tailored for specific performance requirements. Additionally, specialized forms like pot ptfe bearing pads and sliding bearings are widely used in heavy-load applications. These pads excel in handling vertical loads, rotation, and shear forces while providing excellent shock absorption.
Key Points Explained:
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Pure PTFE Bearing Pads
- Made from unfilled (virgin) PTFE, offering the highest chemical resistance and flexibility.
- Ideal for applications requiring minimal friction and moderate load capacity.
- Soft and formable, but may wear faster under high stress compared to reinforced versions.
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Glass-Filled PTFE Bearing Pads
- Reinforced with glass fibers to enhance mechanical strength and reduce wear.
- Suitable for high-load scenarios, such as bridge expansions and seismic applications.
- Maintains low friction while improving creep resistance.
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Carbon-Filled PTFE Bearing Pads
- Contains carbon additives for increased hardness and thermal conductivity.
- Performs well in high-temperature environments and under heavy dynamic loads.
- Offers better wear resistance than pure PTFE but may have slightly higher friction.
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Pot PTFE Bearing Pads
- A specialized type combining a steel pot with a PTFE disc for confined movement.
- Handles extreme vertical loads and rotational movements in bridge bearings.
- Provides superior stability and longevity in large-span constructions.
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PTFE Sliding Bearings
- Designed for linear or rotational movement with minimal resistance.
- Often used in seismic isolation systems and heavy machinery.
- Can be paired with stainless steel plates for smoother motion.
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Material Grades & Forms
- Virgin PTFE: Soft, unfilled, best for low-stress applications.
- Bearing Grades: Optimized for low friction and high-temperature performance.
- Reprocessed PTFE: Eco-friendly option made from recycled material, though with slightly reduced properties.
Each type addresses unique engineering challenges, from seismic activity to thermal expansion. When selecting a PTFE bearing pad, consider load capacity, movement requirements, and environmental conditions to ensure optimal performance.
Summary Table:
| Type of PTFE Bearing Pad | Key Features | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Pure PTFE | High chemical resistance, low friction, moderate load capacity | Low-stress applications requiring minimal friction |
| Glass-Filled PTFE | Enhanced mechanical strength, reduced wear, creep resistance | High-load scenarios like bridge expansions and seismic applications |
| Carbon-Filled PTFE | Increased hardness, thermal conductivity, wear resistance | High-temperature environments and heavy dynamic loads |
| Pot PTFE Bearing | Steel pot with PTFE disc, handles extreme vertical loads and rotations | Large-span constructions and bridge bearings |
| PTFE Sliding Bearings | Minimal resistance for linear/rotational movement | Seismic isolation systems and heavy machinery |
| Virgin PTFE | Soft, unfilled, best for low-stress applications | General low-stress uses |
| Bearing Grades | Optimized for low friction and high-temperature performance | High-performance engineering applications |
| Reprocessed PTFE | Eco-friendly, slightly reduced properties | Sustainable projects with moderate requirements |
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