Steel Replacement
High performance thermoplastics have been proven to replace and outperform traditional metal items such as bronze bushes, bronze bearings, phosphorous bronze, stainless steel and cast iron in a wide range of applications. Thermoplastics such as Sustadur PETP and Sustatron PPS MOD are chosen for their value added features, cost reduction and with the focus on the environment, the argument of recyclability adds to the appeal of using plastics.
Benefits of Plastic Vs Metal:
- Lightweight
- Low friction and improved wear
- No lubrication required - External lubrication can result in problems with dust and grease build-up
- Increased part life - Improved wear performance results in less down time. (Even better with internally lubricated grades such as Sustaglide, Sustadur PET GLD 130 etc...)
- High mechanical resistance
- Noise reduction - Significant decline of in-use noise levels and vibration. Reduces the need for sound insulation and dampening
- High impact strength
- Greater flexibility to machine and process
- Easier to machine and process - Machining steel can be difficult and costly on tooling and machine wear
- Cost effective for producing low volume projects
- Low thermal conductivity - Keep heat in or out
- Electrical insulating properties
Application Examples for Metal Replacement:
- Susta PEEK outperforms steel in high temperature, steam applications
- PTFE performs better in corrosive chemical environments
- PE and lubricated grades of NYLONS offer exceptionally low co-efficient of friction and are the ideal alternative in high wear and abrasive environments
- Machined Sustamid 6GMo sheaves offer an ideal replacement to traditional steel sheaves. Weight is reduced, rope and sheave life is extended and the need for lubrication eliminated. The long-term cost savings allow the maintenance budget to be stretched further.
- Bushes and gears machined from modified materials require no lubrication, have excellent wear resistance and smooth operation.
