Why Choose Pressed Steel Mounted Bearings?
A member of our team recently spoke with a customer who was looking at purchasing a pressed steel mounted bearing. As the customer was playing around with the part, the top plate fell off and then the insert bearing fell to the floor.
Laughing, our customer asked, “Why would anyone ever buy a mounted bearing like this? It barely stays together!”
It is a fair question, and one that many customers have when they first encounter a pressed steel mounted bearing. At first glance, these bearings may not inspire confidence—after all, if the thin top plate can come off so easily, will the insert bearing just fall out during operation? Many customers hesitate to try pressed steel mounted bearings because they worry about durability and performance compared to heavier-duty materials like cast iron. However, these bearings are designed with specific applications in mind, and their unique advantages make them a smart choice for many industries.
Understanding the Benefits of Pressed Steel Bearings
When selecting mounted bearings for your application, there are several material options to consider, each with its own benefits. One popular choice, especially for light to medium-duty applications, is pressed steel mounted bearings. At MDS of Michigan, we offer a variety of high-quality pressed steel flange mounted bearing units, including:
- Pressed Steel 3-Bolt Triangle Flange Eccentric Locking (SAPFT) – Click Here
- Pressed Steel 3-Bolt Triangle Flange Bearing Set Screw Locking (SBPFT) – Click Here
- Pressed Steel 3-Bolt Flange Eccentric Locking (SAPF) – Click Here
- Pressed Steel 3-Bolt Flange Bearing Set Screw Locking (SBPF) – Click Here
- Stamped Steel 2-Bolt Flange Eccentric Locking Collar (SAPFL) – Click Here
- Stamped Steel 2-Bolt Flange Bearing Set Screw Locking (SBPFL) – Click Here
Pressed steel pillow block bearings are available via phone at (800) 686-1627 or email at sales@mdsofmi.com
But why would a consumer choose pressed steel over cast iron or other materials? Here are the key advantages:
1. Lightweight and Cost-Effective: Pressed steel mounted bearings are significantly lighter than their cast iron counterparts. This makes them an excellent choice for applications where weight reduction is a priority, such as conveyor systems, light-duty machinery, and equipment with frequent manual handling. Additionally, their housings are thinner, using less material while still providing reliable support. This reduction in material helps keep costs down while maintaining durability in the right applications. This reduced size translates to lower material costs and easier handling during installation. Pressed steel is also more affordable overall, making it a cost-effective solution for businesses looking to keep expenses down without sacrificing performance.
2. Easy Installation, Maintenance, and Component Swapping: Stamped and pressed steel bearing housings are designed for quick and easy installation. They typically come with pre-drilled mounting holes and are available in eccentric locking or standard bearing designs for secure attachment. Their simple construction also makes maintenance straightforward, reducing downtime and operational disruptions. Additionally, if a component wears out, you can easily swap the housing or insert bearing without needing to replace the entire unit, saving both time and money.
3. Shock and Vibration Absorption, Heat Dissipation:Â While cast iron bearings can be brittle under impact, pressed steel bearings have a degree of flexibility that allows them to absorb shock and vibration better. This makes them an ideal choice for applications with variable loads or slight misalignments. Additionally, because they lack a thick outer housing, pressed steel bearings allow for better airflow around the bearing, helping to dissipate heat more effectively. This makes them a great option for high-temperature environments where overheating could be a concern.
4. Versatile Mounting Options: Many users also utilize the flange pressed steel mount bearings as clamping mechanisms by placing the top and bottom plates around a piece of metal and tightening them securely. This method allows for easy installation and secure mounting on various surfaces. Whether you need an eccentric locking collar or a standard bearing design, our selection ensures you get the right fit for your project.
Industries and Applications for Pressed Steel Mounted Bearings
Pressed steel mounted bearings are widely used across various industries due to their lightweight construction and cost-effectiveness. Here are a few common applications:
- Agriculture – Used in conveyors, grain augers, and small machinery where weight savings and easy maintenance are crucial.
- Food Processing – Ideal for environments where frequent washdowns are needed, thanks to their simple design and easy replaceability.
- Material Handling – Found in conveyor systems, package sorting facilities, and lightweight transport equipment.
- HVAC Systems – Used in fan and blower assemblies where reducing overall weight is beneficial.
- Textile Industry – Applied in spinning and weaving machinery that requires smooth, low-vibration operation.
Find the Right Pressed Steel Mounted Bearing at MDS of Michigan
If you are looking for reliable, lightweight, and cost-effective bearing solutions, pressed steel mounted bearings are an excellent choice. MDS of Michigan carries a full range of options, ensuring you get the best product for your specific needs. Browse our inventory online or contact our team for expert recommendations!
