Bearings are an essential machine component meant to restrict relative motion and minimize the friction produced between moving parts. This is a necessary function that occurs in the operation of many machines used daily, such as wristwatches, vehicles, and computer disk drives. Without this element, there is a significant risk of machine failure. Though there are several types of bearings, the journal is one of the most popular and effective, especially when they’ve gone through hard chrome plating.

Common Questions Concerning Journal Bearings

What is a journal bearing? 

Journal bearings are fluid film or sliding, as opposed to a rolling one. This is because they have a stationary shell and rotating shaft, separated by a layer of lubricant, which helps further reduce frictional resistance and wear. They can be made out of cast iron, hardened steel, or Babbitt and are often reinforced with a stronger, more accurate surface through the process of hard chrome plating. 

What are the different types?

There are two main classifications of journal bearings, which include hydrodynamic and hydrostatic. Hydrodynamic bearings distribute the lubricant into the space between the stationary shell and rotating shaft. This creates pressure that causes the shaft to lift away from the surface and maintain a pumping action in the lubricant. In hydrostatic bearings, the lubricant is pressurized before the shaft begins rotating. This helps flush away debris. 

What are they used for?

Because they allow for design freedom, there are several applications journal bearings can be used for. Most frequently, they are placed in industrial machines that require exceptionally high horsepower and high loads. Thus, they are commonly found in steam turbines, compressors, engines, centrifugal pumps, and generators. 

How are they beneficial? 

The primary function of journal bearings is to prevent friction and wear, but they offer many other benefits, as well. They help to decrease transmitted vibration, lessen the noise when a machine is running, and enable machines to withstand sudden shock loads. The lubricant also prohibits metal-to-metal contact, contributing to machine longevity. Journal bearings are durable and long-lasting themselves, but the life span is extended after hard chrome plating. 

If you have additional questions about journal bearings or how they’re used, the professionals at R. A. Heller Co. will be happy to supply a more in-depth explanation. For more than 70 years, they have provided businesses throughout Cincinnati, OH and the surrounding metropolitan areas with high-quality hard chrome plating. They are qualified to take care of all your machine engineering needs for an affordable price. Call (513) 771-6100 to learn more about their services or visit them online.