Bearing system keeps conveyor in operation long term

Problem: A Florida wastewater treatment plant was replacing screw conveyor ball bearings much more frequently than the recommended interval, at great expense in downtime and labor. A 4-inch shaft drives the conveyor screw. Sludge penetrated the pressurized grease-sealed ball-bearing cases, accelerating wear and eventually causing complete failure after about nine months. 

Solution: SealRyt designed a PackRyt bearing from its own SR01081 material, along with a reconfigured housing with a pressurized air flush system. The PackRyt BLR (bearing with integrated lantern ring) is designed with close clearances to eliminate shaft movement, allowing it to seal effectively. Once the shaft has been stabilized, the air flush system creates a pressure differential that keeps sludge from entering between the bearing and sleeve, eliminating excessive wear. The design has no internal moving parts.

Result: The bearing was installed in September 2012, and it continues to function without replacement or adjustment. 413-564-5202; www.sealryt.com

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