One of the oldest yet outstandingly effective fountain-head of electricity, hydropower plants generate almost 70% of all renewable electricity. This being the reason, the method of generating hydropower has blazed a trail from traditional times to the present. And now, since the expanse of hydroelectric power produced is expected to spike up to 3.1% annually for the next 25 years, the efficacious equipment and supporting materials are taking the market by storm. That’s where the need for ‘composite bearings’ enters the scene.
Made from a combination of material such as resin blended with fiber, and other components of two material categories, composite bearings are stronger in comparison to bronze and plastic bearings. They are popularly harnessed in the hydropower industry to keep the flow of turbines smooth and the operation of machines efficient.
Below are some of their significant advantages that help the world relish non-stop electricity at affordable prices.
Light-Weight
Being light-weight in contrast to other materials, they let the hydropower plant lower its total weight, ultimately enhancing its working competency.
High Rigidity
Composite bearing materials such as dry lubricant, engineering plastic, and resin are highly rigid and robust and do not change their shape even when exposed to high heat or UV rays.
Eco-Friendly
They are corrosion and dust resistant and thus help the water and overall environment stay clean and purified.
Maintenance-Free
Replacing the composite with traditional bearings helps the industry to prevent the discharge of lubricants, oil, and grease while boosting the overall performance. As a matter of fact, they present the joy of lower maintenance and cost-effectiveness.
To sum up, as the hydropower industry continues to develop, the demand for composite bearings in the market also escalates. All it takes the engineers or manufacturers to opt for the quality-driven materials to execute with high-performance. Thus, to the managers of the next big hydropower project, brace yourself to eliminate electricity under-supply in every nook and corner of the world and let everyone live in full-swing.