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 at
sales@bowman.co.uk.
What is an acetal lined plain bearing?
An acetal lined plain bearing is a composite bearing designed for lubricated applications involving rotary, oscillating, or reciprocating movement. Bowman WMX® bearings feature a carbon steel backing, a porous sintered bronze interlayer, and an acetal (POM) co-polymer sliding surface, providing excellent wear resistance, high load capacity, and reliable long-term performance.
How does WMX® compare to WMU® and WMUB® bearings?
WMX® bearings are designed for wet-running and lubricated applications, using an acetal (POM) sliding layer. In comparison, WMU® bearings feature a PTFE lining for dry-running, maintenance-free operation, while WMUB® bearings combine a PTFE lining with a bronze backing to deliver higher load capacity and greater structural strength for demanding applications. The best choice depends on the operating environment, load, and lubrication conditions.
Can WMX® plain bearings run in wet conditions?
Yes. WMX® acetal lined plain bearings are specifically engineered for wet-running and grease-lubricated environments. Their acetal sliding surface provides excellent wear resistance, dimensional stability, and smooth operation where lubrication is present, making them ideal for higher-load industrial applications.
What sizes of WMX® plain bearings are available?
Bowman supplies WMX® plain bearings in a comprehensive range of standard metric and imperial sizes to suit a wide variety of industrial applications. In addition to stock sizes, Bowman offers an in-house machining service to manufacture bespoke bearings with custom dimensions for specialised engineering requirements.
Where are acetal lined plain bearings typically used?
Acetal lined plain bearings are commonly used in hydraulic equipment, agricultural machinery, construction equipment, pumps, compressors, material handling systems, industrial automation, lifting equipment, and general engineering. They are particularly well suited to lubricated applications involving rotary or oscillating movement where high wear resistance, reliable performance, and long service life are required.
