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Material Handling

Material Handling equipment is used to transport, lift or convey significant loads in a reliable manner. The Mast guide Bearings and Leaf Chain on Fork Lift Trucks are the key elements to keeping a fleet running 24/7.

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The material handling industry covers a wide range of materials, applications, and processes. Material handling incorporates various automated, semi-automated, and manual equipment to move, protect, store, and control the products used in different facilities, including manufacturing plants, warehouses, and distribution centers. This equipment can range from forklift trucks to conveyor systems to automated guided vehicles.

Efficient material handling results in better customer service, reduced inventory, streamlined deliveries, and lower costs. To ensure optimal performance and functionality, material handling equipment and machinery must incorporate high-quality bearings.

What Are the Common Bearings Used in the Material Handling Industry?

What Are the Common Bearings Used in the Material Handling Industry

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There are 4 common bearings used throughout the material handling industry. These include:

Mast Guide Bearings

Sometimes called mast roller bearings, these bearings serve as a guide roller for telescopic masts in forklifts and other heavy machinery. As with all industrial bearings, mast guide bearing bores are fitted. However, the outer diameter of the bearing acts directly against a steel mast rail. Mast guide bearings can withstand high thrust and radial loads as well as high intermittent shock loads, and they are suitable for high load and low-speed applications. 

Cam Follower Bearings

Cam follower bearings mount to a stud and are able to follow tracks or cams. Made with a high rigidity shaft, these bearings are suitable for intermittent shock and heavy loads. Professionals in the industry count on cam followers to hold up to undue stress without fracturing under the weight.

Double Row Bearings

Double row bearings are identifiable by their deep raceways, which make them suitable for handling both radial and axial loads. The extra row in the bearing and high-contact design make it possible to increase load-carrying capacity compared to single row options. 

Leaf Chain

Leaf chain bearings are made for nonlinear applications with heavy loads and slow speeds. They’re particularly useful when paired with reciprocating motion lifting such as forklift masts. This bearing type is typically supplied in specific lengths, and they conform to the ASME/ANSI B29.8 American standard.

What Are Some Common Applications for These Bearing Types?

Bearings are critical components in a variety of equipment used in the material handling industry, including:

  • Heavy Cranes. The harder a heavy crane has to work, the more chances there are of rotating part failure. This makes it more likely that the crane will break down, causing unwanted downtime. Bearings for these applications must be chosen with extra load factors in mind, and equipment must have strict and regular maintenance schedules.
  • Conveyors. Bearings are used in conveyors to move exceptionally heavy items, such as coal, ore, concrete, and iron. To ensure continual functionality, the conveyor system needs to be exceptionally durable and made to resist failure under intense conditions.
  • Escalators/Elevators. From airports to offices, escalators and elevators rely on bearings to move people around quickly and efficiently. A system that fails in the middle of traffic can cause more than just an inconvenience.
  • Forklift Trucks. A factory floor or distribution center depends on forklift trucks to move pallets and goods efficiently. Mast guides and leaf chain bearings ensure the forklift operates smoothly all day long.

Material Handling with Emerson Bearing

Material handling is a complex industry, one that requires an in-depth understanding of the inner workings of your machinery. At Emerson Bearing, our experts are dedicated to finding which bearing will work best for your needs. We understand that no two customers are alike, so we are here to determine the ideal solution regardless of how complex your application is.

We maintain a wide range of bearings in sizes ranging from three millimeters in inner diameter to five-foot steel mill bearings. Our products are sourced from European, Asian, and North American manufacturers and are available at various price points. 

To learn more about our bearing products, or for help finding the best solution for your material handling application, please contact us today.

Special Solutions: For applications requiring extra high dynamic and static load ratings we recommend Cylindrical Roller Sheave Bearings which have the added advantage of rubber seals to prevent water and dust intrusion. These are highly suitable for Rope Sheaves.

 

Contact our Marketing Specialist:
Joe Falvey – E-mail
Phone: 1.866.995.8760

For More Information:
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