End cap ball bearing offers longer machine life

Made with a cost-effective yet high-performance xirodur B180 material, the bearing ensures high wear resistance and durability and is ideal for a variety of applications. The new xiros end cap is FDA-approved and its self-lubricating and water-proof properties make it suitable for the food and packaging industries. As with all robust xiros polymer ball bearings, the end cap is maintenance-free and guarantees low friction values for the inner and outer bearing ring, providing exceptionally long-life. Thanks to its unique tribo-polymer design, it can withstand high rotational speeds of up to 1,800 rpm, as well as resist harsh chemicals and corrosive environments. In addition, it can endure extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C and up to +80°C. With a low weight, the end cap has been carefully designed by igus to meet the most stringent weight requirements without reducing stability; the axial load-bearing capacity is 245 N in static use and 294 N in dynamic applications. In addition, to meet designers' individual needs, the bearing can be customised; it is also available with glass, plastic or stainless steel balls that are protected by a polyamide cage, which ensures high material strength and durability. The company tells us that these properties and features make the new xiros end cap ball bearing ideal for a variety of industrial applications, including rollers for roller conveyors; tubes with an outer diameter of 50 mm can be turned into rollers by simply inserting the end cap ball bearings. Depending on requirements, different roller lengths, thicknesses and materials are possible by simply cutting the central tube to the desired length. The outer diameter of the bearing features a number of ribs, which enable a good fit to a wider range of tube dimensions. "Fast and straightforward to assemble, the new xiros end cap ball bearing is well-suited for use in new machines as well as retrofitting," claimed Rob Dumayne, director at igus. "Being easily cleaned with water or air, the end cap ball bearing meets the highest hygienic and ecological standards, including those found in the food & drinks industry." Designers and engineers can calculate the product's service life easily by using QuickLife, an online web tool which features specifications based on comprehensive tests carried out in the igus laboratory.