Composite Self-Lubricating Bushings
AST’s composite, self-lubricating bushings are made up of one of two basic compositions:
- PTFE-Based Metal-Polymer Materials
- Thermoplastic-Based Metal-Polymer Materials
Lubrication free bushings are used in applications where extreme agitation of parts and the force of friction to wear on parts. These self-lubricating bushings are able to withstand high temperatures and have high load-bearing tolerances.
More about each series is explained below.
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Our metal-backed, PTFE-based (polytetrafluoroethylene) polymer bushing materials have a common structure, consisting of a steel backing bonded to a porous bronze sinter layer. This bronze sinter layer is impregnated and overlaid with the filled PTFE bushing lining. The steel backing provides mechanical strength, while the bronze sinter layer provides a strong mechanical bond between the backing and the bushing lining. This construction promotes dimensional stability and improves thermal conductivity. These PTFE linings offer exceptionally low friction.
The AST20 Series has a similar structure to the PTFE-based materials described above; but with this series, the bushing lining consists of a filled thermoplastic extruded tape. The AST 20 Sereies are very similar to DX® brand bushings in structure and are often substituted for DX bushings providing better value. These materials are generally designed to operate with marginal lubrication. AST20 is most commonly provided with a uniform pattern of indents in the bushing surface that act as grease reservoirs.
AST’s has nearly 1,400 different bushing models that are made of composite materials and are self-lubricating. They are broken down into the following series. Click on each to learn more:
AST Bearings is proudly presenting our new certificates for both the NJ and CA locations: AST Bearings’ ISO 9001:2015 Certificates
To learn more about what the ISO 9001 standard is, the differences between the 2015 and 2008 versions, and how AST verifies customer satisfaction: Learn About AST Bearings’ certification to ISO 9001:2015
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