ThorPlas Engineering Manual - Thordon Bearings

INTRODUCTION
1. Introduction
Thordon Bearings produces several bearing grades
that offer specific operating advantages in different
applications. ThorPlas® has been formulated to
complement the existing range of Thordon elastomer
bearing grades and significantly expands the range of
applications where Thordon bearings can be specified,
while still maintaining many of the recognized Thordon
performance benefits. As compared to Thordon elastomer
bearings, ThorPlas offers better dimensional stability
in water and through a wide range of temperatures, so
can be installed with tighter clearances in applications
such as vertical pumps.
A proprietary engineered thermoplastic, ThorPlas is a
homogeneous, self-lubricating polymer material capable
of withstanding operating pressures up to 31 MPa
(4500 psi) installed in a full-form, interference-fit
bearing configuration. ThorPlas was formulated for
use in hydro-turbine wicket gate and operating linkage
applications, as well as for high pressure industrial
and marine bearing applications. Other applications
where ThorPlas has performed successfully include
vertical pumps, where higher temperatures and chemical
content prohibited the use of Thordon SXL, and deck
equipment where the use of Thordon TRAXL bearings
was cost prohibitive.
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The guidelines in this manual have been developed to
ensure that ThorPlas is designed, machined and installed
correctly. They will also help to ensure the safety of all
personnel during the handling, machining and installation
of ThorPlas.
This information is offered as part of our service to
customers. It is intended for use by persons having
technical training and skill, at their discretion and
risk. All operations should be performed by individuals
using suitable protective equipment.
If there are any questions regarding the procedures or
performance of ThorPlas, contact the Thordon Bearings
Inc. at (905) 335-1440 or by e-mail:
info@thordonbearings.com.
The company reserves the right to change or amend any
specification without notice. The sole, exclusive and only
responsibility of Thordon Bearings Inc. (’the Company’) to
any customer or distributor of the Company’s products for any
claims, damages, losses or liabilities arising out of, or relating
to, any products supplied by the Company, and the Company’s
sole, exclusive and only warranty shall be in accordance with
the Company’s Limited Warranty and statements limiting its
liability set out on page 28 of this manual. In no event
whatsoever shall the Company be liable for special, indirect
or consequential damages.