In the design of rolling bearing support systems used in knitting circular machines, two primary types are commonly found: ball-type and steel track-type. Historically, ball-type bearings were predominantly used in Japanese circular knitting machines before the 1980s, while steel track-type bearings gained widespread popularity globally after that period.
The ball-type rolling bearing is the most basic form of this technology. It consists of a pinion gear supported by rolling elements positioned within a large groove on the machine’s structure, with radial alignment provided by a cylindrical surface. These bearings can be lubricated using either grease or an oil bath, with the latter offering better performance for high-speed operations, reduced noise, and improved motion accuracy. One of the main advantages of this system is its simple construction, which leads to lower manufacturing and installation costs. However, compared to the steel track type, it has slightly less wear resistance.
On the other hand, the steel track-type rolling bearing is the most widely used and technologically mature option in modern knitting circular machines. It features a compact cross-section and is available in both metric and imperial sizes. A nylon spacer separates the steel balls, allowing them to roll along a fixed circular track formed by four wires at the corners. This compact design makes it ideal for integration into the machine's structure. The key advantage of steel track bearings is their suitability for large-diameter rotating components and low-energy operation, which aligns well with the needs of knitting machines.
A typical configuration of a steel track bearing is the three-body-enclosed structure. This design encloses a square-section steel track bearing between a fixed top plate, a movable pinch seat gear, and a compression ring. Depending on the position of the compression ring relative to the center of the steel balls, the structure can be categorized into four types: upper inner pressure ring, upper outer pressure ring, lower inner pressure ring, and lower outer pressure ring.
One of the significant benefits of this enclosed structure is the ease of adjusting and replacing the steel track bearing. The gap can be fine-tuned by loosening screws, and the thickness of the gasket can be adjusted without disassembling other parts. When replacement is needed, the compression ring can be removed quickly, making the process efficient and straightforward. This feature enhances maintenance convenience and reduces downtime, making it a preferred choice in many industrial applications.
Guide Ring
Guide Ring is a mechanical seal, also known as a guide ring. It is usually made of metal or plastic and used to support and position pistons or rods. Guide Ring has excellent wear resistance and corrosion resistance, which can effectively reduce leakage and friction, thereby extending equipment life. Guide Ring is widely used in the hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and automotive industries as an important mechanical seal.
The classification of Guide Ring can be divided by material, structure, and purpose. According to material classification, Guide Rings are mainly divided into metal Guide Rings and plastic Guide Rings. Metal Guide Rings are usually made of metals such as copper, iron, and stainless steel, which have high strength, wear resistance, and high-temperature resistance; The plastic Guide Ring is usually made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), nylon, polyimide and other materials, with good corrosion resistance and low friction coefficient.
According to structural classification, Guide Rings are mainly divided into unidirectional Guide Rings and bidirectional Guide Rings. A unidirectional guide ring can only withstand pressure in one direction and is typically used in hydraulic and pneumatic systems; The bidirectional guide ring can withstand bidirectional pressure and is typically used in the mechanical and automotive industries.
According to usage classification, Guide Rings are mainly divided into piston Guide Rings and rod Guide Rings. The piston guide ring is usually used to support and position the piston, preventing friction and leakage between the piston and the cylinder liner; The rod guide ring is used to support and position the rod, preventing friction and leakage between the rod and the seal.
In summary, Guide Ring is an important mechanical seal with a wide range of applications. Guide Rings with different materials, structures, and uses have their own characteristics and advantages. Choosing the appropriate Guide Ring can effectively improve the performance and lifespan of the equipment, reduce maintenance costs and failure rates.
Wearing,Guide Ring,Guide Strip
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