Stonework machining has to be precise and productive. CNC multi-axis machines cut large bullets
of stone into countertops, floor covering, stone laminates, and many unique shapes used in the laboratory and as building
façades. The cutting and routing through stone creates clouds of dust, coolant swarf and other industrial waste that is
tough on linear motion way systems, particularly for rolling element linear motion. Coolant slurry and stone dust
created by the machining process goes everywhere, washing out lubrication and jamming ball and roller bearings. Downtime
and routine maintance robs users of productivity! Continued operation also damages the machine further resulting in
more costly repair. A prominent machine builder that designs and manufactures stone working/cutting machinery recruited
PBC Linear to devise a solution.
The manufacturer’s machinery has been used for every possible facet of stone-working from quarry-work
to kitchen counter-top machining. These machines are designed to last in harsh surroundings; however their linear guiding
system experienced repeated binding and stalling in the field. Stone dust, particulate and leaking coolant caused the systems
original roller bearings to bind up and fail. Constantly replacing the failed components resulted in increased costs and
production time. After enduring this cycle of replacing unfit components long enough, the stone-working manufacturer sought
out another linear system and turned to PBC Linear.
PBC Linear recommended installing their round shaft Simplicity® linear plane bearings to replace the
failing rolling element bearings. With no moving parts, self-wiping design, and round profile; contamination does not build
up and stall the Simplicity® bearing’s travel. PBC Linear’s proprietary precision ground Frelon® liner riding on a coated
hardened shaft is the key for low cost, maintainance free, linear motion. Simplicity® plane bearings plow smoothly
through contamination, dirt and dust. The bearing also dampens vibration, tolerates temperature extremes, and is chemical
resistant—all while providing smooth, quiet and precise linear motion.
A few months after installation, the stone-working manufacturer noticed incredible improvement in
the performance of their stone cutters. Unexpected downtime, production costs, and repair maintenance all decreased.
Learn more about our Simplicity Plane Bearings at:
Linear-Plane-Bearings
