Thrust washers can be found in almost every appliance, machine, transportation conveyance, power tool, and recreational device that has moving parts, axles, bolts, pins, bearings, and rotating components. In their simplest form, thrust washers are long-wearing flat bearings in the shape of a washer that transmit and resolve axial forces in rotating mechanisms to keep components aligned along a shaft. Thrust washers are an economical alternative to rolling thrust bearings whenever forces velocities are moderate.

Thrust washer bearings work by reducing friction between two surfaces that move against each other. When axial loads are applied, the rolling elements in the bearing move between the raceways on the shaft and housing washers, distributing the load evenly and reducing friction. This allows the two washers to move smoothly against each other without wearing out.

Thrust washer bearings are flat bearings that are typically inserted between a rotating component and a stationary component, and function to keep the rotating component in place by providing it with something to rub up against if it begins to move laterally. They support the axial load or side-to-side motion on a shaft. Viiplus thrust washer bearings are made from self-lubricating materials that promote maintenance-free, dry operation for a wide range of applications and axial load requirements.

Thrust washer bearings offer several advantages, including:

• High load-carrying capacity: Thrust washer bearings can support high axial loads and are suitable for heavy-duty applications.
• Low friction: The rolling elements in the bearing reduce friction, resulting in smoother operation and less wear on the bearing.
• High precision: Thrust washer bearings can provide precise axial positioning and are often used in applications where accuracy is crucial.

There are several types of thrust washer bearings, each with its unique design and application. Let’s take a look at the most common ones:

1. Plain thrust washer bearings, also known as flat washers, are simple, flat, and round components with a hole in the center. They are made from materials like bronze, steel, or plastic, and are used in low-speed applications with minimal axial loads.
2. Ball thrust bearings consist of two grooved washers and a set of balls held together by a cage. These bearings are capable of handling moderate axial loads at high speeds, making them suitable for applications like pumps, compressors, and machine tool spindles.
3. Cylindrical roller thrust bearings use cylindrical rollers instead of balls, offering higher load-carrying capacity and better rigidity.
4. Tapered roller thrust bearings use tapered rollers arranged between two angled raceways, providing the ability to handle combined axial and radial loads.

Graphite thrust washer bearings are mostly used for sliding bearings, which are divided into radial bearings and thrust bearings.
Viiplus oilless thrust washer bearing use graphite materials as the main base material and are used in the bearings of conveyors, dryers, textile machines, submersible pump motors, etc. Pollution, while the graphite bearing has strong self-lubrication and corrosion resistance, and can operate for a long time without using lubricating oil.

• Automotive transmissions
• Industrial gearboxes
• Marine propulsion systems
• Aerospace applications
• Mining equipment and more

• Allows maintenance-free and long-life operation;
• Suitable for high static and dynamic loads;
• With low and smoothly coefficient of friction and without stick-slip effects;
• Suitable for dirty, corrosion, impact load, and edge loading;
  The base material provided a good shock-absorbing capacity;
• Can be used over a large temperature range;
• Suitable for reciprocating, rotating and oscillating movement with start frequency and difficulty to form oil film occasions;
• With low wear rate and long life service.

Some benefits of using thrust washer bearings include:

• Ability to handle axial loads effectively.
• Low friction and reduced wear.
• Wide range of materials and designs for various applications.
• Compact and lightweight design for easy installation.
• Improved performance and efficiency in machines.

Disadvantages of Using Thrust Washer Bearings

• Limited capacity for handling radial loads.
• Potential for increased noise and vibration if not properly installed or maintained.
• Material and design limitations in extreme operating conditions.