White Paper on Technical Research and Testing on Self-Lubricating Bearings used in
Hydro-Turbine Wicket Gate Applications

Summary of Technical Testing on Self-Lubricating Bearings Used in Hydro-Turbine Wicket Gate Applications

From Universities, Research Centres, and OEMs
A White Paper Published by Thordon Bearings Inc.

New research at several Universities, Research Centres, and OEMs  have provided the latest independent results verifying how self-lubricating ‘ThorPlas-Blue’ bearings out-perform all other options when used for hydro-turbine wicket gate applications. The findings are included in the white paper.

This document provides a comprehensive examination of self-lubricating bearing materials, with a particular focus on ThorPlas-Blue wicket gate bearing applications. The white paper addresses different aspects of self-lubricating bearings, including their historical development, testing methodologies, effects on friction and wear, and other pertinent factors, to evaluate use-specific bearing performance on a through-life basis.

The results confirm why a growing number of users specify Thordon’s ThorPlas-Blue bearings for wicket gates and verifies their unrivaled wicket gate endurance for this application.







Benefits


Hydro-Turbine Wicket Gate / Linkage / Operating Ring Bearings

Thordon wicket gate, operating mechanism, and linkage bearings operate wet or dry and eliminate the cost, maintenance and pollution risk associated with greased bearings.

  • Self-lubricating to ensure performance in limited-motion applications
  • No galling from edge loading caused by minor misalignments or gate deflections
  • Can be machined on site to accommodate dimensional inconsistencies and avoid replacement parts
  • Quick stock and custom delivery to meet demanding rehabilitation schedules




Products


Wicket gate

Wicket Gate / Linkage /
Operating Ring Bearings


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