Hydro Tech’s bearings are engineered for superior performance in marine environments, specifically for water lubricated propeller shafts. Crafted from lignum vitae, a naturally durable and self- lubricating wood, these bearings are renowned for their longevity and reliability in underwater conditions. Lignum vitae’s unique properties make it an ideal material for marine stern tube bearings, offering a combination of natural lubrication, corrosion resistance, and environmental sustainability.
Hydro Tech’s marine bearings are constructed from lignum vitae, a wood known for its exceptional durability in harsh marine conditions. This material offers a lifespan that surpasses any synthetic alternatives, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
One of the standout features of lignum vitae is its natural self-lubricating properties. The wood’s resin provides continuous lubrication, which minimizes wear and tear on the propeller shaft, resulting in lower maintenance costs and less downtime.
Unlike metal or synthetic materials, lignum vitae resists deterioration, even in saltwater environments. This makes Hydro Tech’s marine bearings a reliable choice for long-term use in marine applications.
Lignum vitae is a naturally sourced material, making it an environmentally friendly option. Choosing Hydro Tech’s marine water bearings aligns with eco-friendly practices, reducing your carbon footprint while maintaining high performance.
Hydro Tech’s marine water bearings are made from high-quality lignum vitae wood, selected for its exceptional properties in marine environments.
The wall thickness of the bearings varies depending on the shaft size. Typically, a thickness as small as 0.5” is used for shafts under 8”, while larger shafts require a 0.75” thickness or bigger.
The bearings feature specially designed lubrication grooves that facilitate efficient lubrication and expel abrasive particles, ensuring smooth operation.
A tapered key design is recommended for the optimal fitting of the marine water bearings. This ensures a secure and precise installation.
Lignum vitae water bearings are primarily used in marine environments for propeller shaft applications. They are also suitable for other water-lubricated bearing needs, making them versatile for various marine and engineering uses.
Lignum vitae is certified to NSF-61 requirements and is considered food safe.
Proper installation of lignum vitae water bearings is crucial for optimal performance. We recommend mechanical methods, such as individually bolting each stave or using tapered keys, for securing the bearings effectively. Shaft alignment is critical for any bearing application. Hydro Tech can advise on the best shaft alignment solution for a specific application.
Due to the self-lubricating properties of lignum vitae, the water bearings require minimal maintenance. However, regular inspections are advised to ensure continued efficiency and longevity. As lignum vitae is a wood material its moisture content must be maintained. Lignum vitae wood is intended to be fully saturated in water. If the bearing is removed or if the ship is placed into dry dock the bearing must have water applied to it to prevent the wood from drying out. Failure to do so may result in damage to the bearing material and loss of geometric tolerances required for the bearing to operate.
Lignum vitae is chosen for marine bearings because of its natural self-lubricating properties, high-load bearing capacity, and resistance to wear, making it ideal for harsh marine environments. Additionally, lignum vitae’s longevity, often lasting for decades, outperforms any synthetic alternatives, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Lignum vitae is chosen for marine bearings because of its natural self-lubricating properties, high-load bearing capacity, and resistance to wear, making it ideal for harsh marine environments. Additionally, lignum vitae’s longevity, often lasting for decades, outperforms many synthetic alternatives, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Lignum vitae remains competitive with other materials due to its natural lubricity, which eliminates the need for additional lubrication systems. It is also eco-friendly, sustainably harvested, and free of PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances), making it a preferred choice in the marine industry.
Yes, lignum vitae is harvested in a sustainable manner, supporting eco-friendly practices and reducing reliance on synthetic materials and EAL lubricants. Additionally, Hydro Tech’s marine bearings are free of PFAS, contributing further to environmental sustainability.
Lignum vitae marine bearings require minimal maintenance due to their self-lubricating properties. Regular inspections, typically following a 5-year ship survey cycle, are recommended to ensure continued performance. Importantly, these bearings do not require a filtration system; a constant and adequate supply of water is sufficient for proper lubrication.
For common water-lubricated bearings and marine bearing applications, the recommended maximum operating pressure is 0.6 MPa.
Yes, water-lubricated lignum vitae bearings can be used to replace oil-lubricated bearings. This conversion is beneficial for both environmental and performance reasons. For specific applications, please contact us at info@hydrotech-inc.ca.
For more information or to discuss your specific needs, contact us today! Our team is here to provide expert advice and solutions tailored to your marine bearing requirements.
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