Applications of Cryogenic Bearings

 


Cryogenic bearings can operate effectively at temperatures as low as  -150°C (-238°F) or even colder. Not only can they withstand extremely cold conditions, but cryogenic bearings also show impressive resistance to challenges such as brittle material behavior, lubricant freezing, and high thermal contraction rates.

The following are applications of cryogenic bearings:

  • Space and Aerospace: In spacecraft and satellites, temperatures drop drastically, making traditional bearings unsuitable. However, cryogenic bearings can withstand such extreme temperatures as well as vacuum environments and radiation exposure. Consequently, in rocket propulsion systems, cryogenic fuel storage, and mechanisms for scientific instruments in space missions, use of cryogenic bearings are common.
  • Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Processing: To make LNG production- and transport-related operations easier, the equipment used in the LNG supply chain must operate effectively at low temperatures to maintain natural gas in a liquid state, which is made smoothly possible by cryogenic bearings located in compressors, pumps, and expanders for LNG systems.
  • Superconducting Equipment: Cryogenic bearings find applications in MRI machines to help maintain superconducting magnets at the required extremely low temperature levels. Therefore, these bearings are used in cooling systems as well.
  • Medical and Scientific Research: In laboratory applications, where liquid nitrogen or helium is utilised for cooling at low temperatures, cryogenic bearings are the go-to bearing again. They are used in refrigeration systems and particle accelerators.

Types of Cryogenic Bearings

Ceramic Bearings

To ensure the smooth operation of high-speed applications, bearing material combinations such as silicon nitride and zirconia are used. These materials provide low thermal expansion and good resistance to brittle behaviour at low temperatures. Consequently, ceramic bearings find important applications in aerospace and cryogenic pump systems.

Magnetic Bearings

At extremely low-temperatures, bearings dependent on lubricants may not work properly because cryogenic conditions can solidify or make lubricants less effective, causing friction and wear. Magnetic bearings completely remove the need for friction and lubrication, as these bearings operate with a physical distance between their rotating and stationary parts.

In cryogenic applications such as turbopumps, compressors, and vacuum pumps, where traditional lubricants don’t help much, the best option is magnetic bearings. Moreover, these bearings require maintenance in rare cases.

Hybrid Bearings

Hybrid bearings are composed of steel rings and ceramic balls. While steel provides toughness, ceramic offers low thermal expansion and wear resistance properties. Together, they deliver superior performance and durability. Therefore, these bearings are ideal for applications in extreme cold environments and are widely used in compressors, LNG and vacuum pumps.

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please visit us here: https://www.premierbearing.com/.

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