Marine Bearings
Lignum vitae bearings engineered for superior performance in marine environments
ABS Type Approved Product
American Bureau of Shipping certified
Lignum vitae bearings engineered for superior performance in marine environments
ABS Type Approved Product
American Bureau of Shipping certified
Hydro Tech designs and manufactures water-lubricated bearing systems for marine propulsion shafts and hydroelectric turbine applications. Engineered for reliable operation in demanding environments, our bearings provide a proven, environmentally responsible alternative to oil-lubricated systems while delivering exceptional performance, durability, and long service life.
Our bearings are manufactured from carefully selected lignum vitae, a naturally durable hardwood renowned for its self-lubricating properties, wear resistance, and ability to perform in submerged conditions. For decades, lignum vitae has been trusted in marine stern tube bearings and hydroelectric turbine guide bearings due to its low friction characteristics, dimensional stability, and resistance to erosion. Combined with Hydro Tech’s engineering expertise and field experience, our water-lubricated bearing solutions help operators improve reliability, reduce maintenance requirements, and extend the life of critical rotating equipment.
Four reasons fleet operators and shipyards specify lignum vitae over synthetic alternatives.
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.
Each lignum vitae bearing is built and machined to suit the shaft size, loading and operating environment of the application. The specification points below cover the elements we tune for every job.
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 for propeller shaft applications, but they suit any water-lubricated bearing duty — from commercial vessels to eco-sensitive equipment.
The primary application — lignum vitae stern tube and propeller shaft bearings for commercial, naval and recreational vessels.
A versatile alternative for any water-lubricated bearing duty where oil-free, self-lubricating performance is required.
Naturally PFAS-free and food-safe certified — the right fit for projects with strict environmental or potable-water requirements.
Certified for marine and potable-water service so you can specify Hydro Tech bearings with confidence.
Lignum vitae is certified to NSF-61 requirements and is considered food safe.
Hydro Tech’s lignum vitae marine bearings are ABS Certified — recognized as an ABS Type Approved Product.
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.
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Common questions about lignum vitae marine bearings, materials and service life.
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.