There are a number of ways in which large steel or concrete structures move, and any movement, however small, can cause a build up of what can be potentially dangerous stresses. If no allowance is made for these movements the stresses can build up to such an extent that structural failure is the inevitable result. There are a number of conditions that can be the cause of these movements:
One of the ways of minimizing the stresses caused by these movements is by using structural bearings, including plain sliding bearings. Technoslide manufactures a whole range of plain sliding bearings, each of which is manufactured according to the client’s specifications. These bearings provide the desired purpose and are manufactured using the latest technology and advanced materials.
The structural bearing known as the plain sliding bearing makes use of the unique low-friction properties of polytetrafluoroethylene or PTFE. Our BA type bearings provide for a low friction sliding movement in one or more directions. This is achieved by bringing together a film of metal backed PTFE and a highly polished mirror-finish sheet of stainless steel. There is no significant rotational motion, but outstanding sliding motion, even with temperatures as high as 250ºC. By utilizing a high level of investment in research and development, we optimise our existing products and implement ground-breaking answers. Thanks to close cooperation with our clients, consultants and research establishments, we have been able to achieve this goal time after time. Call us at +27 (0) 11 605 2434 for any further information regarding plain sliding bearings of any type.