BOWMAN'S WMU® PTFE LINED BEARINGS: HIGH-PERFORMANCE, DRY-RUNNING APPLICATIONS
Bowman’s WMU® range of PTFE lined wrapped bearings is engineered for high-performance, dry-running applications where low friction, excellent wear resistance, and long service life are essential. Manufactured with advanced PTFE lining technology, these PTFE lined plain bearings create a protective transfer film on the mating surface during operation, reducing friction and enhancing durability even under demanding operating conditions.
Designed for maintenance-friendly performance, WMU PTFE bearings provide outstanding sliding characteristics without the need for continuous lubrication, making them ideal PTFE plain bearings for applications where conventional lubricants are impractical or undesirable. Their low coefficient of friction and excellent wear resistance make them suitable for automotive, hydraulic, precision engineering, material handling, and industrial machinery applications.
As standard, Bowman manufactures steel backed PTFE bearings that combine the structural strength of steel with the superior low-friction properties of PTFE. For applications where standard steel is unsuitable, the WMU-SS range is available with bronze or stainless steel backing strips, offering enhanced corrosion resistance while maintaining the same exceptional performance as the standard wrapped PTFE bearings.
Recognized for quality and reliability, Bowman supplies PTFE lined wrapped bearings in a comprehensive range of metric and imperial sizes, including flanged bushes, cylindrical bushes, thrust washers, and custom-engineered solutions. Whether you require standard WMU PTFE bearings or bespoke PTFE lined plain bearings, Bowman’s engineering expertise ensures optimum bearing performance for your application.
With decades of experience in bearing technology, Bowman continues to develop innovative PTFE lined wrapped bearings that deliver outstanding durability, reduced maintenance, and reliable operation in demanding industrial environments. From standard steel backed PTFE bearings to custom wrapped PTFE bearings, Bowman provides precision-engineered solutions trusted by customers worldwide.
WMU® PTFE Lined Specifications
| Structure | S.A.E. 1010 steel backing strip with sintered bronze and PTFE layers |
|---|---|
| Max PV – Dry (N/mm² x m/s) | 1.8 |
| Max PV – Oiled (N/mm² x m/s) | 2.8 |
| Max Static load (N/mm²) | 250 |
| Max Dynamic load (N/mm²) | 140 |
| Max Sliding speed – Dry (m/s) | 2.5 |
| Max Sliding speed – With Oil (m/s) | 5 |
| Operating temperature (°C) | -200 to 280 |
| Thermal Conductivity (W/mk) | 42 |
| Coefficient of friction – Dry | 0.02 to 0.20 |
| Coefficient of friction – With Oil | 0.02 to 0.15 |
| Recommended shaft finish (Ra) | 0.04 max (N5) |
| Recommended shaft hardness (HB) | 200 min |
Discover the Wrapped PTFE Lined Series
Select a product below to view dimensions, specifications and technical data.
Key Strengths of WMU® PTFE Lined Bearings
Low Friction Power
Designed with advanced low-friction properties to reduce energy loss and enhance efficiency.
Durable Sliding Action
Provides smooth, consistent sliding motion with minimal wear for extended reliability.
Exceptional Load Capacity
Engineered to support high radial and axial loads without compromising performance.
Corrosion-Resistant Coating
Equipped with a protective coating to resist rust, chemicals, and harsh environments.
Long-lasting Performance
Combines robust construction and superior materials to ensure extended operational life.
Frequently Asked Questions
If the answer to your question is not listed below, please feel free to give us a call directly on +44 (0)1235 462500 or email us on sales@bowman.co.uk.
What are WMU® PTFE lined wrapped bearings?
WMU® PTFE lined wrapped bearings are high-performance plain bearings designed for dry-running and low-maintenance applications. Manufactured with a steel backing and a low-friction PTFE sliding layer, these PTFE lined plain bearings create a protective transfer film on the mating surface during operation, reducing friction and wear while extending service life. They are ideal for applications where reliable performance is required with minimal or no lubrication.
Which applications are WMU® PTFE lined bearings suitable for?
WMU PTFE bearings are widely used in automotive, hydraulic systems, construction equipment, agricultural machinery, material handling, aerospace, and precision engineering applications. Their excellent wear resistance and low-friction performance make these PTFE plain bearings particularly suitable for oscillating movement, slow rotational speeds, and high-load applications where maintenance access is limited.
Which type of materials are used in WMU® bearings?
Standard WMU® Bearings are manufactured as steel backed PTFE bearings, combining a durable steel backing with a high-performance PTFE lining to provide strength and exceptional sliding characteristics. For applications requiring enhanced corrosion resistance, Bowman also offers the WMU-SS range with bronze or stainless steel backing strips while maintaining the performance benefits of wrapped PTFE bearings.
How do I choose the right WMU® bearing for my project?
Selecting the appropriate WMU PTFE bearings depends on several factors, including load, operating speed, shaft material, temperature, lubrication conditions, and environmental exposure. Bowman's engineering team can help you choose the most suitable PTFE lined wrapped bearings or recommend a custom solution to ensure optimum performance, reliability, and service life.
Why choose WMU® bearings over traditional metal bearings?
Unlike conventional metal bearings that often require regular lubrication, WMU® PTFE lined wrapped bearings provide low-friction, maintenance-friendly operation with excellent wear resistance. Their PTFE lining reduces friction, minimizes component wear, and extends equipment life, making them an ideal solution for demanding industrial applications. Available as standard steel backed PTFE bearings or corrosion-resistant alternatives, Bowman delivers PTFE lined plain bearings that offer superior reliability, reduced maintenance costs, and long-term performance.
Looking for a custom size or special specifications?
Whether you need standard or custom options, we’re here to help. Reach out now and let’s find the perfect match!
