Unplanned stops in filling , packaging , or palletising assets in food processing can have cascading negative impacts that severely limit operational efficiencies .
integrity over extended operational cycles , thus contributing to prolonged equipment lifespan and minimised downtime .
Food packaging processes often involve exposure to elevated temperatures . Ceramic bearings thrive in these conditions due to their high thermal stability . This property prevents dimensional distortions and ensures consistent performance even under temperature fluctuations , crucial for maintaining precision in packaging operations .
What ’ s more , ceramic bearings ’ ability to operate without lubrication at lower speeds , translates into lower friction and reduced heat generation during operation . This contributes to energy savings and improved efficiency in the packaging line , making them an asset in highthroughput environments .
Navigating design engineering challenges
In the realm of food packaging lines , bearings may encounter a multitude of challenges , including extreme temperatures and exposure to excessive moisture and chemicals .
In such settings , the bearings employed need to adhere to a variety of unconventional standards . The presence of contaminants further compounds the situation , manifesting in various ways . In the meticulously regulated domain of food and beverage production , the introduction of contaminants can result in substantial losses in production efficiency . Moreover , the copious moisture stemming from regular washdown cycles can lead to the displacement of lubricants from the component .
Likewise , the bearings must withstand chemical exposure arising from detergents and sanitisers , which can trigger corrosion and expedite the wear of components . For applications that are too corrosive for 440 stainless steel ball bearings , or where the load is too high for 316 grade stainless steel bearings , full ceramic bearings in zirconia or silicon nitride are advised . These bearings are also suitable for much greater temperature extremes .
Ceramic bearings are often costlier to manufacture , so design engineers must evaluate the benefits they bring to the specific packaging application and determine if the enhanced performance and longevity justify the investment .
Alternatively , plastic acetal resin bearings present a cost-effective choice and are also resistant to corrosion . Where bearings are suitable for applications involving low loads and speeds . To enhance resistance against corrosion and withstand extreme temperatures , it is possible to employ alternative materials for the rings or cages , such as polyether ether ketone ( PEEK ), polytetrafluoroethylene ( PTFE ), or polyvinylidene fluoride ( PVDF ).
The slender nature of bearings often used in packaging applications necessitates meticulous attention to the circularity of the rings themselves . Consequently , the manufacturing procedure demands an exceptionally precise approach to ensure optimal circularity in both rings , along with favourable noise levels within the bearing . This invariably mandates the utilisation of fine grinding and machining techniques , complemented by an exceedingly high standard of quality in both the manufacturing process and the raw materials employed . Any imperfection in the formation of the rings , no matter how minuscule , can impede the smooth operation of the bearing , resulting in excessive noise and disturbances along the food packaging line .
Ceramic materials , though highly resilient , have inherent brittleness . Design engineers must strike a balance between optimising loadbearing capacity and safeguarding against potential fractures or surface damage during high-impact events .
In the evolving landscape of hygienic and efficient food packaging , ceramic bearings emerge as a transformative force . Their corrosion resistance , temperature stability and friction-reducing properties make them pivotal in safeguarding product quality while optimising packaging line performance . However , the journey towards full integration entails addressing challenges related to precision manufacturing , load-bearing capabilities and costeffectiveness . By leveraging the distinct characteristics of ceramic bearings and conquering these design engineering hurdles , the food packaging industry can embrace a new era of efficiency , reliability and product integrity .
Interested in ceramic bearings for a food and beverage application ? For more information about SMB Bearings ’ ceramic bearings offering , visit the website or contact a specialist today .
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