NSK has also introduced the Silver-Lube range of corrosion resistant bearings and housings. Together with the RHP Life- Lube range, Silver Lube bearings can also benefit from the sealed-for-life lubrication provided by NSK’s 'Molded-Oil' technology. Ideal for operation in wet or inaccessible applications, Molded Oil is a solid lubricant. This means that operating environments are kept free of grease – very important in food applications. In addition, there is no need for refilling of lubricant, as Molded Oil provides a continuous supply of lubricating oil.
Essentially Self-Lube housed bearing units consist of an insert, normally a 6200 series deep groove ball bearing with cast iron (pillow block, flange or take-up unit) or pressed steel housings. The bearing insert can carry a combination of radial and axial loads in the same way as a standard ball bearing. It has an extended inner ring with integral shaft locking device and a spherical outer ring that matches the spherical bore in the housing to overcome initial housing misalignments up to 0.030 radians.
A number of insert types are available for use in light and heavy applications and high and low temperature operating conditions. Heavy-duty types are used widely in equipment such as pumps and fans. Designed with a wide inner ring they facilitate a wide range of locking methods.
The simplest of these, set screw locking, is suitable for most applications excepting those where vibration is a problem. Where vibration does occur an eccentric locking collar mechanism is supplied. Alternatively, in applications where positive concentric lock is required, or when heavy vibration or shock loads are present, a taper lock system is preferred.
With all these locking arrangements, standard shafting can be used – there is no need for a precision interference fit.