For high speed applications such as cycling and skateboarding, a non-contact seal is a preferable option. Offering greater contamination protection than shields, non-contact seals do not affect maximum speed or bearing torque.

Bearingseal types SKF

RotaLube has completely changed how we do maintenance. The automatic lubrication system works really, saving our guys so much time and is much better than brushing them manually. We’ve had a lot less issues and our chains last longer, making everything run smoother and more reliably.

BearingSeal size chart

RotaLube’s lubrication system has really changed things for our conveyors. It fixed our lubrication problems better than our old spray system, reducing downtime a lot. This system has also made our chains last longer and improved overall efficiency.

Most of our bearings are available with metal shields. Shields are designed to prevent larger particles from entering the bearing and also to keep grease inside the bearing. They may be pressed into the bearing’s outer ring (non-removable) or retained by a circlip (removable). As the shields make no contact with the inner ring, they do not increase starting or running torque. Shields on stainless steel bearings are generally made from AISI 304 stainless steel.

BearingRubber Seal

For applications in the food and beverage or pharmaceutical industry, equipment must adhere to strict hygiene and safety standards. In these environments, contamination protection is of utmost importance, so opting for a contact seal is favourable to ensure dust does not enter the bearing. For equipment that deals with regular wash-downs, a contact seal will also offer effective water resistance. This will stop grease washing out of the bearing, the roller or balls skidding or the creation of excess heat. Many steel bearings for this industry need to be supplied with non-toxic lubricants approved to NSF (formerly USDA) H1 or H2 standards.

Our roller and conveyor chain solutions ensure smooth, reliable operations with every drop, delivering peace of mind you can count on.

Wheelbearing seals

Our solutions include advanced automatic systems, cost-efficient lubrication kits for precise application, applicators for longer chains, and high-quality oils that endure harsh conditions and minimise contamination.

Bearings are available with different types of shields and seals, commonly referred to as closures. These closures are not always essential; however shielded and sealed bearings provide much better protection from contamination and help retain the bearing lubricant.

Bearing and SealsNear Me

Since we started using RotaLube, our chains have been clear of built-up dust and have been running much better. The system is a big improvement over what we used before. It’s cut down on our downtime and made our chains last longer, making it a great investment!

Downtime and quality issues caused by ineffective lubrication can significantly disrupt production and lead to costly delays. RotaLube provides a reliable solution with an automated system that ensures precise lubrication at crucial points on conveyor and roller chains, eliminating user inconsistencies common in other methods. This approach helps prevent equipment failure, while reducing waste, and creating a safer working environment.

RotaLube, Unit 5, Greenbank Business Park, Dyneley Road, Blackburn, BB1 3AB. T: +44 (0)1254 311196 E: sales@rotalube.com

Over the last five years, we’ve added several RotaLube systems, and they work just as they’re supposed to. We’ve saved a lot of money, especially on lubrication costs. We’ve told our other branches about RotaLube because it’s been so reliable and effective for us.

Bearingsand SealsLocations

Explore the industries RotaLube’s advanced lubrication system helps maintenance teams reduce costs and improve conveyor chain performance.If your industry isn’t listed, get in touch to find out how we can tailor our solutions to meet your specific maintenance needs.

These seals are also made of nitrile rubber bonded to a metal washer but do not rub against the bearing inner ring and therefore do not have the same effect on bearing torque and maximum speed as contact seals so can be used for low torque, high speed applications. They offer superior protection over metal shields but do not provide as effective a seal as the contact type. Some bearing types are available with PE, PEEK or PTFE non-contact seals for temperature extremes or increased corrosion resistance.

Our determination to remain specialised gives us a high level of product knowledge, providing bearing and lubrication solutions to existing or potential customers, whether individuals or large corporations. We don’t just sell bearings, we help to solve your problems. - Chris Johnson, managing director of SMB Bearings.

Bearingseal material

Our advanced lubrication system precisely targets the pins and brushes, eliminating spillages, and excess lubrication common with many other methods. By delivering lubrication exactly where it’s needed, our solution not only addresses key maintenance challenges but also enhances conveyor chain performance. This precision reduces costly downtime, extends the lifespan of your equipment, and ensures optimal efficiency and reliability—making it the smart choice for maintaining smooth operations.

The standard bearing seal consists of nitrile/BUNA-N rubber bonded to a metal washer. The washer is made of SPCC cold rolled steel for chrome steel bearings or 304 stainless steel for stainless steel bearings. High temperature PTFE (Teflon) seals or Viton seals are available on some sizes. The inner lip of the seal rubs against the bearing inner ring to provide an effective seal against smaller particles such as dust and moisture while preventing lubricant leakage. Contact seals produce much higher frictional torque levels than shields and reduce the maximum speed of a bearing. Below -40°C nitrile rubber and viton will stiffen and provide a less effective seal so PTFE seals or metal shields should be considered for very low temperatures.

Shielded metal bearings can generally withstand higher temperatures than sealed bearings. For high temperature applications 440 grade stainless steel bearings can be used at temperatures of up to 300°C. Rubber or plastic may risk melting if subjected to extreme conditions and can cause the bearing to fail if pieces melt off and enter the raceway. In these scenarios, a shielded bearing is advisable.