The common conception of a Slide Bearing Assembly is with it functioning horizontally. The lower member is fixed and the upper member has movement +/- along only one straight line. While that is the most common application there are many others based on situation and need.
Shown below is a vertical Slide Bearing Assembly in a connection whose function is to allow limited movement in a 360° diameter, but no movement toward or away from the adjoining member. (Fig. 1)
The bent plate is anchored with epoxy embeds to the horizontal beam above. This connection is fixed with no movement allowed.
The vertical leg is similarly fixed with embeds but the Fluorogold® Slide Bearing Assembly will allow for controlled movement.
Fig. 1
The vertical assembly, left to right is: Column, Stainless Steel Plate Washer, Fluorogold® Slide Bearing, Upright Leg of Bent Plate, Fluorogold® Slide Bearing, Stainless Steel Plate Washer.
The key to function is both the slide bearing materials are bonded to the upright bent plate and there is a 2-1/2” dia. hole through them and the upright leg. (fig.2)
This leaves the Beam and/or Column to drift anywhere in the diameter provided.
Fig. 2
The side view shoes the wider holes that allow movement of the Beam or Column.
Two not so obvious factors are important to consider in the assembly.
- Pressure on the Fluorogold® Sliding surface. For PTFE, whether Fluorogold® or Teflon®, adequate pressure is required for the surface to self-lubricate and develop its very low co-efficient of friction. A minimum of 70 psi is needed, with 200 psi being more desirable. This is what allows the surface to approach the 0.05 to 0.20 COF (µ). The typical horizontal slide bearing connection develops this pressure using gravity.
- This assembly is designed with Teflon® sliding on stainless steel. The stainless surface should be polished to a 2B finish to help lower the coefficient of friction.
Because this connection is vertical there is no pressure afforded from gravity. The embedded bolt needs to be tightened sufficiently so that the surfaces lubricate correctly.
The Steel Supply Company provides a complete line of Fluorogold® and Teflon® Slide Bearings and can assist with the design. With any questions or requests please feel free to contact us.
631-212-3236
info@thesteelsupplyco.com