A Thordon Bearings’ product has been proved to outperform its counterparts when used for hydro-turbine wicket gate applications.
The company’s self-lubricating ThorPlas-Blue bearing was evaluated by Luleå University of Technology in Sweden and PowerTech Labs in Canada. Both institutions conducted studies to verify performance claims for this key component of the vanes that control water flow through a turbine and regulate power output. Particular attention was given to the sliding friction coefficient and wear rate that determine the efficiency of self-lubricating, thermoplastic bearings.
The tests not only compared friction, wear rates, creep and stick-slip resistance across a range of commonly available bearings, but also highlighted how friction can vary significantly under different load and speed conditions.
According to the company, the results were consistent with findings from other research carried out by institutes across Europe and North America, including the Quebec Electricity Research Institute (IREQ).
ThorPlas-Blue is a homogeneous, self-lubricating thermoplastic bearing designed for a full-form, interference-fit installation. Capable of withstanding operating pressures up to 45 MPa (6,527 psi), it delivers very low wear in non-abrasive environments, with multiple studies confirming its low-friction, low-wear characteristics.
Earlier this year, the company announed that it had appointed Progreen as its exclusive distributor for Azerbaijan.
