OffshorejMarine

Lubron

AO
Self-Lubricating
Bearings
Lubron Bearing Systems
Bearings to move the world.
Lubron AO
Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 2
LUBRON AQ self-lubricating bearings have been performing
flawlessly in offshore marine projects worldwide for over 25
years. Combining the low friction of PTFE with the rigidity of
high strength bronze alloys, LUBRON AQ bearings are capable
of satisfying the most demanding requirements in wet and dry
operating conditions.
LUBRON

AQ self-lubricating bearings are widely

used in offshore marine applications where
environmental conditions are often severe, and
external lubrication is impractical. LUBRON AQ
bearings are constructed of corrosion resistant
bearing alloys and permanent solid lubricants
specifically developed for seawater use. LUBRON
AQ bearings provide dependable performance and
long life, require no supplementary lubrication, and
are completely maintenance-free.
PERMANENT LUBRCATON &
MANTENANCE-FREE
LUBRON AQ self-lubricating bearings feature a
proprietary PTFE-filled solid lubricant embedded
in a cast bronze backing. LUBRON AQ bearings
require no maintenance and provide superior
perfomance thoughout long service life.
LUBRON AQ30 and AQ100 lubricants, specially
formulated for seawater immersion, compliment a
wide selection of solid "oilless" lubricants available
from Lubron Bearing Systems.
LUBRON AQ30 and AQ100 lubricating compounds
are integrally molded and compressed into recesses
provided for permanent containment of the
lubricant. Drilled circular recesses are provided over a minimum 30% of
the entire bearing surface area in uniform, geometric and overlapping
patterns to assure optimum lubricating coverage.
LUBRON AQ30 solid lubricants are machined flush with the bearing
surface. LUBRON AQ100 bearings have an additional lubricating surface
up to .040 inches (1mm) thick applied to 100% of the bearing surface
area, eliminating asperity contact for maximum resistance to wear and
optimum performance. LUBRON AQ100 bearings are particularly suitable
for applications subject to galvanic attack and severe water velocity, the
predominant factors affecting corrosion rates.
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Self-Lubricating Bearings
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Adequate lubrication is the single most important factor for successful
operation of a bearing, especially for high strength bearing alloys that
require continuous lubrication to prevent seizing, scoring and galling.
LUBRON AQ self-lubricating bearings are effective in applications where
relative motion is not sufficient to promote circulation of oil or grease.
LUBRON AQ solid lubricants provide a permanent lubricating film
separating the bearing components, with the capacity to reduce friction
and resist wear independent of an external lubricant.
HGH LOAD CAPACTY & LOW FRCTON
LUBRON AQ bearings have excellent resistance to impact and shock
loads, and can tolerate a high degree of shaft misalignment. Ideally suited
for applications where loads are too great to permit the use of oils or
grease, LUBRON AQ bearings are capable of continuous operation up to
8,000 psi (562 kg/cm
2
) and short-term operation up to 15,000 psi (1055
kg/cm
2
). LUBRON AQ bearings exhibit low friction at high loads, and low
friction at low speeds, ideal for oscillating and reciprocating applications.
CORROSON RESSTANT
LUBRON AQ bearings are not affected by most harsh or corrosive
environments. Constructed of chemically inert lubricants and corrosion
resistant bronze alloys, LUBRON AQ bearings are designed to resist
galvanic action, pitting, cavitation, erosion and biofouling. Aluminum
bronze and nickel aluminum bronze offer the greatest corrosion
resistance, and are most frequently utilized for seawater applications.
SUPEROR PERFORMANCE & LONG SERVCE LFE
LUBRON AQ bearings have proven their ability to perform in rigorous
operating conditions. LUBRON AQs built-in wear resistant solid lubricants,
securely embedded in high strength bronze alloys, combine to provide
superior performance, exceptional endurance and long service life.
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Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 4
MAXMUM SAFETY & RELABLTY
The common cause of bearing failure is inadequate lubrication resulting in
metal-to-metal contact, which greatly increases friction and often leads to
seizure. LUBRON AQ bearings are designed to avoid bearing failure and
premature wear. By offering a unique combination of properties and
capabilities, LUBRON AQ bearings provide reliable and continuous
lubrication of the bearing surface.
APPLCATONS
LUBRON AQ bearings are constructed to withstand the severe offshore
environment, from drilling platform decks to the deep sea floor. Unaffected
by seawater immersion and temperature extremes, LUBRON AQ bearings
are capable of sustaining repeated shock loads caused by ocean current,
wind and wave action.
LUBRON AQ bearings are suitable for applications subject to high static
loads for prolonged periods of dwell. LUBRON AQ bearings do not contain
graphite or other ingredients which could promote electrolysis, and
completely eliminate the need for lubrication and maintenance.
LUBRON AQ bearings are used for offshore marine applications subject
to medium-to-heavy loads and slow-to-medium speeds. LUBRON AQs
versatile properties provide maximum bearing life and trouble-free
operation in both immersed and dry environments. Combining the low
friction of PTFE with the rigidity of high strength bronze alloys, LUBRON
AQ bearings are capable of satisfying the most demanding requirements.
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Self-Lubricating Bearings
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Applications for LUBRON AQ bearings include:
Offshore Oil Production & Storage Loading
floating production storage & offloading vessels
spar floating production platforms
tension leg platforms
fixed platforms
semi-submersible drilling rigs
drill ships
single anchor leg mooring systems
catenary anchor leg mooring systems
single buoy storage systems
storage production terminals
yoke mooring systems
derrick barges
lay ships & barges
semisubmersible derrick crane vessels
cranes
flare towers
platform bridges & gangplanks
fairleads
winches
sheaves
blocks
hoist pivots
swivels
universal joints
turntables
chain stoppers
riser turrets
stinger rollers
Marine Development Sperical Machinery
& Equiptment
ocean energy systems
deep ocean mining
remotely operated vehicles
ocean thermal energy systems
submarine anchor winches
submarine radar antennae
minesweeping towing gear
minesweeping multi-purpose cranes
lighterage connecters
ship rudder posts
sea lock & tidal gates
floating docks
pontoon ramp landings
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Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 6
CONSTRUCTON
LUBRON AQ self-lubricating bearings feature a combination of properties
and capabilities unsurpassed by other maintenance-free bearings. The
key to LUBRON AQs superior performance is its unique structure,
composition and method of manufacture. LUBRON AQ30 and AQ100
bearings are comprised of a bronze substrate and a bronze-lubricant
inner structure. The bronze substrate provides a high load carrying
capacity with excellent dimensional and structural rigidity. The bronze-
lubricant inner structure supplies a permanent reservoir of lubricant for
continuous restoration of the low friction bearing surface.
Cast Bronze Alloys
Cast bronze alloys have been used for centuries in a broad spectrum of
bearing applications. Other bearing materials have been unable to match
their versatility. By alloying copper with other elements, the properties of
bronze can be altered to suit the requirements of most any application.
The choice of a bronze alloy for a particular application is determined by
the desired physical, mechanical and metallurgical properties needed.
For applications exposed to flowing seawater, corrosion resistance
becomes a critical consideration. Corrosion associated with high seawater
turbulence includes cavitations, erosion, and impingement attack. Pitting,
galvanic, and crevice attack are other common forms of corrosion. The
extent of corrosion attack depends on the bearing environment and alloy
composition. Oxygen and chlorine content, conductivity, water velocity,
temperature, salinity, and biofouling affect rates of corrosion. Tensile
strength, yield strength, fatigue strength, hardness, and grain refinement
influence the ability of an alloy to withstand corrosion. Aluminum bronzes,
capable of much higher bearing loads, are widely used in both fresh water
and marine applications. Because seawater is an excellent electrolyte,
severe galvanic corrosion often occurs when two dissimilar metals are
coupled together. Aluminum bronzes provide high resistance to galvanic
action, as very minor potentials are generated between aluminum bronze
and Monel, Inconel, nickel or stainless steel. Most aluminum bronzes offer
good resistance to creep, biofouling, cavitations, impingement corrosion
and chemical attack.
LUBRON AQ alloys are manufactured in strict compliance with ASTM
and ISO material specifications. Some alloys receive supplementary heat
treatment to enhance surface hardness and corrosion resistance.
Centrifugal, continuous, sand, and forged castings are available,
depending on the size and shape required. Physical and chemical test
reports are available upon request.
Lubron AO
Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 7
Permanent Lubrication
LUBRON AQ lubricants are graphite-free and do not contain any
ingredients which promote electrolysis. Graphite has a very noble potential
of +0.25V which can lead to severe galvanic corrosion of copper alloys and
stainless steels in saline waters. LUBRON AQ lubricants consist of PTFE
(polytetrafluoroethylene) and epoxy resins, hardeners, metallic and fibrous
fillers, specially compounded to achieve optimum bearing performance.
Low friction properties are derived from the natural lubricity and high
concentration of PTFE. Epoxy resins and hardeners provide superior
adhesion, thermal stability, wear and chemical resistance. Reinforcing
fillers are added to increase the lubricants resistance to deformation under
load and distortion due to elevated temperatures. LUBRON AQ lubricants
are embedded into circular recesses provided for containment of the
lubricant. Covering 30% to 40% of the bearing surface, these recesses
securely anchor the lubricant and provide permanent reservoirs for
restoring the bearing surface.
LUBRON AQ30 lubricants are machined flush with the bronze substrate
surface. The lubricated surface is continuously replenished by relative
movement between the bearing and mating surfaces.
LUBRON AQ100 bearings offer an additional lubricant film from .001 inch
(.025 mm) up to 0.040 inch (1 mm) thick, providing a full and positive
separation between the bearing and mating surface. For most
applications, LUBRON AQ100 bearings provide longer wear life and
lower coefficient of friction.
PERFORMANCE
LUBRON AQ bearings provide proven performance for demanding
seawater and marine environment applications. LUBRON AQs bronze
alloy and solid lubricant construction offers the optimum choice for
toughness, rigidity, and low coefficient of friction, dry or immersed.
Load Capacity
Load carrying capacity generally depends on the compressive strength of
the bearing alloy and its permissible permanent set. For most applications,
the recommended bearing loads listed in Table 1 will provide a safety
factor of at least 3. LUBRON AQ bearings, which combine high strength
alloys with tough, resilient lubricants, are designed to withstand
heavy loads.
Coefficient of Friction
In low speed, high load applications, LUBRON AQ solid lubricants have a
typical coefficient of friction between 0.02 to 0.10, depending on a variety
of factors affecting performance. Type of environment, bearing load,
velocity, temperature, finish, and hardness of the mating surface all
influence coefficient of friction.
Lubron AO
Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 8
Bearing Wear and Life
LUBRON AQs low friction and abrasion resistant properties help minimize
wear and extend bearing life. Wear is a surface phenomenon that results in
the gradual deterioration of contacting surfaces through friction. Friction is
of less practical importance than the rate of wear, which is defined in terms
of volumetric loss of material over time. Volumetric wear is approximately
proportional to the unit load multiplied by the distance traveled, and is
generally expressed as follows:
W = KPVT
where W = wear depth, in (cm)
K = proportionality constant,
in
3
-min/ft-lb-hr (cm
3
-min/m-kg-hr)
P = bearing pressure, psi (kg/cm
2
)
V = surface velocity, ft/min (m/min)
T = elapsed time, hr

K values for LUBRON AQ100 lubricated bearing surfaces have been
derived from independent testing, and can be used to determine the
amount of wear that will occur over a period of time. For most applications,
a value of K=1.8 x 10
-9
in
3
-min/ft-lb-hr (2.2 x 10
-7
cm
3
-min/m-kg-hr)
is appropriate.
In tests performed by independent laboratories, LUBRON AQ100
bearings have exhibited wear of less than .003 inches (.076 mm) for loads
up to 6,000 psi (422 kg/cm
2
) and durations exceeding 250,000 cycles at
10 oscillations and 9 cycles per minute. These tests occurred without any
degradation of the bearing or mating surfaces, and have demonstrated
wear life 2 to 15 times longer than similar competitive bearings.
In actual applications, wear can be affected by a combination of many
factors. By minimizing PV, deformation due to shaft misalignment,
rotational vibration and excessive heat, LUBRON AQ bearings will achieve
long service life.
DESGN CRTERA
The overall performance of LUBRON AQ bearings is directly influenced
by a variety of operating factors which in particular include bearing load,
speed, PV and type of movement. The following section describes the
design criteria needed to properly specify a LUBRON AQ bearing. While
specific criteria are not provided for every application, essential design
considerations and guidelines are discussed in some detail. For unusual
design problems, additional assistance will be provided.
Alloy No.
Generic
Description
ASTM
Specification
Maximum
Recommended
Bearing Load
Maximum
Recommended
PV
954
Aluminum
Bronze
B148-C95400
4000 psi
27.5 N/mm
2
48,000 psi-ft/min
100 N/mm
2
-m/min
955
Nickel Aluminum
Bronze
B148-C95500
6000 psi
41 N/mm
2
72,000 psi-ft/min
150 N/mm
2
-m/min
958
Alpha Nickel
Aluminum Bronze
B148-C95800
5000 psi
35 N/mm
2
60,000 psi-ft/min
130 N/mm
2
-m/min
TABLE 1
Lubron AO
Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 9
Alloy Selection
Proper alloy selection is necessary to attain maximum resistance to wear
and corrosion. Ideally, the bearing and its mating surface are always
separated by the LUBRON AQ lubricant film. Over a long period of time,
however, extreme wear of the lubricant may result in mating surface
contact. Under these circumstances, the selection of the bearing alloy
becomes particularly important. Table 1 is intended to aid the engineer in
selecting a suitable alloy for the specific application under consideration.
Physical and chemical properties, comparative specifications,
recommended design loads and performance characteristics are provided
for several bronze alloys most often used in fresh water and saltwater
applications. Other alloys are also available to satisfy special requirements.
Selection of a suitable alloy depends on a variety of factors, which include
bearing load, velocity, type of movement, temperature, environment, shear
strength, fatigue strength, deformability, compatibility, hardness
differential, corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and cost. These factors
should be evaluated with regard to all bearing system components to
obtain long bearing life and maintenance-free operation
Bearing Pressure
Bearing pressure (P) is defined as the total load applied on the
supporting or projected area of the bearing, and is expressed as psi
(pounds per square inch), kg/cm
2
or N/mm
2
. For uniformly loaded
bearings, bearing pressure can be calculated as follows:
LOAD
PROJECTED AREA
LOAD
ID X LENGTH
P = =
LOAD
.0785 X (OD
2
- ID
2
)
=
LOAD
WIDTH X LENGTH
=
(Bushings)
(Thrust washers &
flange thrust surfaces)

(Plates)
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Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 10
Bearings should be sized to accommodate the total applied load without
exceeding the maximum design load. Recommended maximum design
loads are shown on Table 1, having been determined by dividing the yield
strength of each alloy by an appropriate safety factor. In most cases, the
safety factor is extremely high, and actual loads may occasionally exceed
the design load with no detrimental effect on bearing life.
Velocity
Surface velocity of a bearing is expressed in surface feet per minute
(SFM) or meters per minute (m/min). For rotational motion, the formula for
converting revolutions per minute (RPM) into SFM is:
V = SFM = RPM x (d)/12 = RPM x 0.262 x d
where for sleeve bearings d = ID and for thrust washers
d = mean diameter = (ID+OD)/2
For oscillating motion, cycles per minute (CPM) are converted into SFM
using:
V = SFM = (4c)/360 x (d)/12 = 0.00291 x x c x d
where = amplitude of motion either side of mean position in
degrees
c = frequency in cycles per minute
For linear or reciprocating motion, velocity is generally expressed in
SFM or m/min. The maximum allowable surface velocity for LUBRON AQ
bearings depends on the applied load and other operating and
environmental variables. In general, surface velocity should not exceed
35 SFM for continuous operation.
PV Limit
PV is the product of bearing pressure (P) and surface velocity (V), and is
used as a means of measuring bearing performance. Values for pressure
and velocity must be considered individually, as well as their combined
product. Temperature is the most important factor in determining a
bearings PV limit. For most cases, the PV limit reflects the point where
surface temperatures are at a maximum, but still stable. Therefore,
anything affecting surface temperature- coefficient of friction, running
clearance, hardness and surface finish of the mating material- will also
affect the PV limit. Bearings which operate at lower PV limit will generally
have longer service lives. LUBRON AQ bearings will perform best when
the bearing assembly is designed for maximum heat dissipation and the
recommended mating materials are used.
Type of Movement
The recommended PV limits listed in Table 1 are based on rotating motion
and intermittent operation. For oscillating and reciprocating motion, or for
continuous operation, up to 50% of the PV limit should be used,
depending on the service life required.
Lubron AO
Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 11
LUBRON AQ bearings are especially effective for intermittent oscillating
and reciprocating motion where conventional lubricants are
inadequate. By providing a tough solid lubricant film over the sliding
surface, LUBRON AQ bearings offer maximum resistance to wear
and seizure under the harshest operating conditions.
SHAPES
LUBRON AQ bearings are available in many different configurations
depending on the application, direction of load, and type of movement.
Most common shapes are listed below.
Bushings
One-piece sleeve bushings are used extensively to accommodate
all types of rotary and linear motion. Sleeve or journal bushings are
employed when the shaft load is essentially perpendicular to the axis of
the shaft (radial loads). Either or both the inside or outside diameters of
the bushing can be lubricated. Depending on the bearing size and
application, the lubricating recesses may extend completely through
the bearing wall or, for larger bushings or bushings subject to heavier
loads, the lubricating recesses will only extend partially through the wall.
Where split housings or a need for disassembly and reassembly make
split bushings advantageous, LUBRON AQ bearings are available
either matched (split before final machining providing perfect 180
halves) or unmatched (split after final machining varying slightly from
perfect 180 halves). Perfect halves are match-marked for proper
assembly to assure maintenance of concentricity.
Washers
Washers are used to accommodate rotational end thrust when the
shaft load is in the direction of the axis of the shaft. Used alone or in
conjunction with sleeve bushings, LUBRON AQ washers can be
lubricated on one or both sides.
Flange Bushings
Flange bushings combine the features of sleeve bushings and washers
into one unit. Available with flanges on one or both ends, flange bushings
are used when the shaft load has both an axial and a perpendicular
component. The flanges may be lubricated for thrust load applications, or
provided without lubrication when required to function only as a spacer.
Lubron AO
Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 12
Spherical Bearings
Self-aligning spherical bearings are designed primarily
to accommodate radial loads and some misalignment.
Misalignment may be caused by articulation, rotation or
structural deflections under load. LUBRON AQ spherical
bearing assemblies consist of an inner component (gimbal)
with a cylindrical inside diameter for shaft rotation and a
spherical convex outside diameter, and a two-piece outer
component (race) with a mating spherical concave inside
diameter and a cylindrical concave outside diameter for
mounting in a housing. Either component can be lubricated.
Plates
Flat plates are frequently used to accommodate
longitudinal and transverse movement under compressive
loads. LUBRON AQ bearing plates are generally fastened
with machine screws. Parallelism between the bearing
plate and the mating plate should be within .001 inches
per inch (.025 mm per mm) of width or length. Where edge
loading caused by eccentric forces is present, self-aligning
radial or spherical bearing plates should be considered.
SZNG
While many factors affect bearing design, the following data is applicable
for most LUBRON AQ bearings. Available in both inch and metric sizes,
LUBRON AQ bearings are supplied finished machined to meet the
exacting requirements of each application.
Inside Diameter
The nominal inside diameter of a bushing is dependent on the shaft
diameter. To obtain the lowest frictional resistance and power loss,
the shaft strength and rigidity should be as high as practical to permit
the smallest possible shaft diameter. When bushing sizes need to be
increased to accommodate larger loads, increasing the bearing length
rather than enlarging the bushing inside diameter is recommended. As the
inside diameter is increased, there is a relatively larger running clearance
which results in a proportionately smaller contact surface area. This
reduction in contact area has the same effect as increasing the bearing
load.
Outside Diameter
The outside diameter of a bushing is dependent on the wall thickness and
size of the housing bore. To determine the outside diameter, add twice
the recommended wall thickness of the inside diameter of the bushing.
Lubron AO
Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 1S
The following Tables provide the recommended wall
thickness for LUBRON AQ bushings. The minimum and
maximum values shown in Tables 2 and 3 are suitable
for most applications, and are based on the permissible
shaft load, bushing diameter and yield strength of the
bearing material. In general, lower strength alloys should
require the maximum wall thickness, while higher
strength alloys can utilize minimum wall thickness.
Length
Bearing length is usually determined by the amount of
projected area necessary to accommodate the radial
load, and can be calculated by dividing the shaft load by
the desired bearing pressure times the inside diameter.
In general, the length-to-diameter (L/D) ratio of a
bushing should be between 1.0 and 2.0 for best
performance. Shorter lengths may cause the bearings to become
over-stressed, while longer lengths may induce edge loading. Bearings
designed within the recommended L/D ratio will usually tolerate shaft
misalignment and shock load without excessive wear.
Flange and Washer Thickness
The thickness for a bushing flange or thrust washer is generally the same
as the corresponding wall thickness for a bushing listed in Tables 2 and 3.
Plate Thickness
Plate thickness should be consistent with the overall plate size. A
minimum of one-half inch (12.7 mm) is recommended for most flat plates.
A minimum thickness of one inch (25.4 mm) is desirable for radial and
spherical plates where one or both sides are lubricated.
Running Clearance
Running or diametrical clearance, which is the amount the bushing inside
diameter exceeds the shaft diameter after press fit closure allowance, is
dependent on several factors including bearing load, speed, size,
temperature, and type of application. Tables 2 and 3 provide
recommended clearance limits for LUBRON AQ bushings prior to
assembly for sizes ranging from 1 inch (30 mm) to 30 inches (765 mm).
The clearance limits must be adjusted for any closure due to press fit by
adding the maximum interface to the limits of clearance. These adjusted
values normally permit adequate running clearance after assembly for
static-to-slow speeds and intermediate-to-heavy loads. LUBRON AQ
bushings may require larger clearances for proper bearing performance.
For severe or special conditions, please consult a LUBRON engineer.
Lubron AO
Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 14
NOMINAL
SIZE RANGE
OVER TO
SHAFT DIA.
(f7)
BEARING
I.D.
LIMITS OF
CLEARANCE
BEARING O.D.
(r7)
HOUSING I.D.
(H7)
LIMITS OF
INTERFERENCE
RECOMMENDED
WALL
THICKNESS
30 - 50
- .025
- .051
+ .209
+ .185
.210
.260
+ .076
+ .051
+ .025
- .000
.025
.076
3.2
9.5
50 - 80
- .025
- .063
+ .264
+ .242
.267
.327
+ .076
+ .051
+ .025
- .000
.025
.076
6.3
12.7
80 - 120
- .038
- .076
+ .326
+ .294
.332
.402
+ .089
+ .063
+ .038
- .000
.025
.089
9.5
15.9
120 - 180
- .038
- .076
+ .404
+ .362
.400
.480
+ .102
+ .063
+ .038
- .000
.025
.102
12.7
19.1
180 - 250
- .051
- .102
+ .472
+ .431
.482
.574
+ .127
+ .076
+ .051
- .000
.025
.127
15.9
22.2
250 - 315
- .063
- .114
+ .551
+ .498
.561
.665
+.140
+ .089
+ .051
- .000
.038
.140
19.1
25.4
315 - 400
- .076
- .127
+ .629
+ .566
.642
.756
+ .165
+ .114
+ .063
- .000
.051
.165
22.2
28.6
400 - 500
- .102
- .165
+ .696
+ .633
.735
.861
+ .190
+ .127
+ .063
- .000
.063
.190
25.4
31.8
500 - 765
- .127
- .203
+ .763
+ .701
.828
.966
+ .254
+ .203
+ .076
- .000
.127
.254
25.4
38.1
TABLE S [MM]
NOMINAL
SIZE RANGE
OVER TO
SHAFT DIA.
(f7)
BEARING
I.D.
LIMITS OF
CLEARANCE
BEARING O.D.
(r7)
HOUSING I.D.
(H7)
LIMITS OF
INTERFERENCE
RECOMMENDED
WALL
THICKNESS
1.00 - 2.00
- .001
- .002
+ .008
+ .007
.008
.010
+ .003
+ .002
+ .001
- .000
.001
.003
.125
.375
2.00 - 3.00
- .0010
- .0025
+ .0100
+ .0095
.0105
.0125
+ .003
+ .002
+ .001
- .000
.001
.003
.250
.500
3.00 - 5.00
- .001
- .0030
+ .0130
+ .0115
.013
.016
+ .0035
+ .0025
+ .0015
- .0000
.0010
.0035
.375
.625
5.00 - 7.00
- .0015
- .0030
+ .016
+ .014
.0155
.0190
+ .0040
+ .0025
+ .0015
- .0000
.001
.004
.500
.750
7.00 - 10.00
- .002
- .004
+ .021
+ .017
.019
.023
+ .005
+ .003
+ .002
- .000
.001
.005
.625
.875
10.00 - 12.00
- .0025
- .0045
+ .0215
+ .0195
.022
.026
+ .0055
+ .0035
+ .002
- .000
.0015
.0055
0.750
1.000
12.00 - 16.00
- .003
- .005
+ .0245
+ .0220
.0250
.0295
+ .0065
+ .0045
+ .0025
- .0000
.0020
.0065
0.875
1.125
16.00 - 20.00
- .0040
- .0065
+ .0275
+ .0250
.029
.034
+ .0075
+ .0050
+ .0025
- .0000
.0025
.0075
1.000
1.250
20.00 - 30.00
- .005
- .008
+ .033
+ .028
.033
.038
+ .010
+ .008
+ .003
- .000
.005
.010
1.000
1.500
TABLE 2 [NCHES]
LUBRON AO BUSHNGS
CLEARANCE & NTERFERENCE LMTS BEFORE PRESS FT
Lubron AO
Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 15
Press Fit
LUBRON AQ bushings are usually press fit into their housings. The
bushing outside diameter is slightly larger than the housing bore, resulting
in a press of interference fit. Press fitting will cause the inside diameter of
the bushing to close-in, usually in direct ratio of the magnitude of the
interference fit. This close-in must be compensated for in the bearing
design to achieve the proper running clearance after press fit.
Tolerances
Machining tolerances for most LUBRON AQ bearings range from .001 to
.002 inches (.025 to .050 mm) for inside diameters, and .0005 to .001
inches (.012 to .025 mm) for outside diameters. Surface finishes will
generally not exceed 63 inch (1.6 m).
MATNG SURFACES
LUBRON AQ bearings will operate against most metals, but best
performance is achieved with the hardest possible mating surface.
A minimum hardness of Rc 20 (BHN 228) is desirable, although softer
materials will generally provided satisfactory performance. Smoother
finishes are normally required for harder materials, higher loads, and
higher surface speeds. For maximum wear resistance, mating materials
should be machined and polished to a surface finish between 16 to 63
inch (0.4 to 1.6 m). Mating materials should be selected that will
most effectively resist corrosion. Austenitic (Types 304 and 316) and
precipitation-hardened (17-4 PH) stainless steels are commonly utilized
in fresh and salt water mediums. Carbon steel shafts can be protected
with stainless steel sleeves, which are available from Lubron Bearings
Systems. For larger journal sizes, Monel, Inconel, and stainless steel
weld overlays are recommended.
NSTALLATON
LUBRON AQ bearings are supplied fully machined and ready for
installation. Even though LUBRON AQ bearings are extremely durable,
care must be taken to ensure that the lubricated bearing surfaces are
not damaged before or during installation.
LUBRON AQ bearings are most often press fit into their housings.
The sizes recommended in Tables 2 and 3 provide the proper
interference fits for assembly. The bearings must be inserted squarely
into the housings. Accurate alignment is particularly important for
self-lubricating bearings.
Lubron AO
Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 16
Misalignment over the length of the bearing or over the diameter of a
thrust washer should not exceed .001 inches per inch. Chamfers are
provided on the outside diameter of the bearing to facilitate proper
alignment. Shouldered arbor plugs should be used to install smaller
bearings. For larger sizes, LUBRON AQ bearings can be refrigerated or
packed in dry ice prior to installation. Immersion in liquid nitrogen is
generally permitted provided the temperature of the bearing does not fall
below -112 F (-80 C). LUBRON AQ bearings can also be retained in the
housings with countersunk set screws, dowel pins, or keyways.
LUBRON AQ bearings should be wiped clean and free of all debris prior to
installation of the shafts. Proper housing design and sealing of the bearing
will prevent the ingress of foreign debris during operation. Application of
a supplementary non-soluble lubricant during assembly will permit easier
installation and provide better initial performance. The shaft ends should
be burr-free and have a minimum of .060 inch (1.5 mm) radius or 15
chamfer. LUBRON AQ bearing inside diameters are normally furnished
with 30 chamfers. Unlike most other self-lubricating bearings, LUBRON
AQ bearings can be machined after assembly to control running clearance
or correct minor misalignment. When circumstances necessitate field
machining the lubricated bearing surface, consult a Lubron engineer for
specific recommendations.
SUPPLEMENTARY LUBRCATON
LUBRON AQ bearings are frequently used where oil and grease
lubrication are impractical. However, special operating conditions my
exist that require the use of a supplementary lubricant. In such cases,
LUBRON AQ bearings can be furnished with one of several groove
patterns to accommodate most types of loading, movement and
lubricating requirements. Typical patterns include straight, circular, figure
8, and oval grooves. Grooves may be specified in any width and depth,
and can run out one or both ends. Seal grooves may also be added for
applications subject to ingress of foreign debris. Selection of a suitable oil
or grease is dependent on the operating conditions, environment,
convenience and cost. While most oils and greases are compatible with
LUBRON AQ bearings, calcium and lithium multi-purpose Grade 2
greases without MoS
2
additives are generally more suitable.
MANUFACTURNG CAPABLTES
Our manufacturing facilities are modern, flexible, and complete, capable
of complex tasks with precision accuracy. Our diverse design and
manufacturing skills combine to assure consistent quality and reliable
performance from small bushings to large bearing assemblies.
Lubron AO
Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 17
OUALTY ASSURANCE
Every LUBRON bearing is guaranteed to meet or exceed the quality
requirements for each job. From procurement and fabrication to final
inspection, every phase of manufacturing is monitored by our quality
control personnel. Every step is planned, performed, checked, and
certified in writing. All LUBRON bearings are manufactured and inspected
in strict accordance with the requirements of ISO 9002. Material
certifications are normally provided at no additional cost. Non-destructive
testing, including radiograph, ultrasonic, hydrostatic, magnetic particle
and liquid penetrate examination, are performed to comply with the
specifications of ASTM by certified independent testing laboratories.
ENGNEERNG & TESTNG
LUBRON engineers have extensive product knowledge and experience in
metallurgical, mechanical and structural disciplines. We offer our
customers a variety of engineering services, from selection of bearing
alloys and mating materials, to prototype and full size production testing
to simulate load, movement, temperature, and other environmental
conditions present during the actual operation of LUBRON bearings.
Coefficient of friction and wear testing is performed in-house or by
independent testing laboratories. Bearing design, AutoCAD

drawing
preparation, testing, consulting, and on-site engineering services are
available upon request.
STANDARD SPECFCATON FOR LUBRON AO100
SELF-LUBRCATNG BUSHNGS
The following specification is recommended for seawater immersion and
marine atmosphere applications. Specifications for other applications and
bearing configurations are available upon request.
Self-lubricating bronze bushings shall be equal to LUBRON AQ100 as
manufactured by Lubron Bearing Systems, Huntington Beach, California,
USA. The bushings shall be composed of supporting metal and a solid
lubricant suitable for underwater marine application. The bushings shall
be one-piece construction with a self-lubricating bearing surface on the
inside diameter. The supporting metal shall be high strength nickel
aluminum bronze, Copper Alloy UNS No. C95500, manufactured in strict
accordance with ASTM B148 Alloy C95500, ASTM B271-C95500 and
ASTM B505-C95500. Circular recesses for containment of the lubricant
shall be machined or cast perpendicular to the bearing surface, be at
least .25 inches (6.4 mm) deep or extend completely through the
supporting metal, and be arranged in a uniform, overlapping geometric
pattern in the direction of the rotating motion.
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Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 18
The pattern of recesses shall have a net cross-sectional area that is not
less than 30% of the total area of the surface and shall normally extend
to within approximately .125 inches (3.2 mm) of the chamfers at each
end of the bushings.
The solid lubricant shall be a dense combination of solids and binders
having non-deteriorating characteristics as well as lubricating qualities
and shall be capable of withstanding the effects of long-term atmospheric
exposure and submersion in flowing water. The lubricant shall not
contain graphite, molybdenum disulfide, or any other ingredients that tend
to promote electrolytic or chemical action. The use of shellac, tars, resins,
solvents, or other non-lubricating binder materials is not acceptable. The
self-lubricating compound shall be integrally molded and compressed
into recesses provided for containment, with an additional coating up to
.040 inches (1 mm) thick applied to 100% of the bearing surface area.
The lubricant shall be free from detrimental pits, pinholes, and other
imperfections that will impair the design load capacity. The lubricant shall
have a Type D Durometer hardness of at least 80 when tested in
accordance with ASTM D2240.
The bushings shall not be damaged, scraped, or machined on the
lubricating surface after manufacture. The surface finish of the bushing
and the lubricant film shall not exceed 63 microinches (1.6 micrometers)
as measured in accordance with ANSI Standard B46.1. The bearing
manufacturer shall recommend the housing and shaft tolerances to
assure proper interference fit and running clearance of the bushings.
The bushings shall have a design load capacity of at least 6 ksi (41 MPa)
of projected bearing area at surface speeds not exceeding 10 fpm (.05
m/s). The static and dynamic coefficients of friction shall not exceed 0.10
when subjected to loads up to 6 ksi.
Lubron AO
Self-Lubricating Bearings
Lubron AO OffshorejMarine 19
LUBRON Self-Lubricating Bearings
for OffshorejMarine Applications
LUBRON AO
LUBRON AQ bearings are constructed of high strength bronze alloys
permanently embedded with PTFE solid lubricants, and are unequaled for
toughness and durability. Widley used in offshore applications, LUBRON
AQ bearings provide maximum service life and trouble-free operation in
both immersed and dry marine environments.
LUBRON TF
LUBRON TF bearings are constructed of woven PTFE fabric liners
permanently bonded and mechanically locked to rigid bronze or stainless
steel backings. Capable of very low friction and high wear resistance,
LUBRON TF bearings offer exceptional performance and long service life
for marine environments.
LUBRON TX
LUBRON TX bearings consists of synthetic fiber reinforced PTFE
polyester materials capable of high loads and low friction. LUBRON TX
bearings have excellent dimensional stability in seawater, and are ideally
suited for many offshore marine applications. LUBRON TX bearings can
be machined on-site, and are a lower cost alternative to many other
self-lubricating bearings.
Lubron Bearing Systems
17211 Metzler Lane
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
USA
Phone: 714-841-3007
Fax: 714-841-3507
Email: sales@lubron.com
www.lubron.com
Catalog 0503
Copyright 2005 Lubron Bearing Systems