ball bearings for vacuum applications 1

[mobilegate]

Hi everybody,
I am using ball bearings in a vacuum chamber used for coating
The bearings get damaged after a very short period of time.
Are there any special bearings that can be used in that environment where no oil is tolerated.
Thanks

 

[testy]

Is it possible to use a Nonmetallic plain sleeve bearing? To determine this you will have to calculate loads and shaft hardness. Check

http://www.mcmaster.com

for a bearing to fit your application.

 

[vacuumsage]

Hello

There are a couple of lubricants on the market that have been developed for vacuum use. I have used both Krytox and Torrlube. Your local vacuum vendors should be able to supply these.

If your coating is done at high temperature, another possibility may be to try Dichronite - this is essentially a molydisulfide coating that is applied to the ball (or other style) bearing. (Bearing must be degreased first). I currently have ball and needle bearings running in vacuum systems with all of the above lubricants.

I am not aware of any ball bearings specifically made for vacuum use, If you happen to come across some I would certainly appreciate hearing about them.

Thanks

 

[mobilegate]

Thanks for your answers.
I found a company that makes those bearings exactly the way you describe it

http://www.championbearings.com

Thanks.

Marc

 

[AJone]

If the bearings are damaged due to deposits instead of wear, you be able to clean them in a solution such as vineager on a regular basis.