Bushing and bearing insertion is one of the most common jobs performed by factory presses. These components are diverse and versatile, and finding the right press for bearing insertion requires some consideration. Let’s take a look at the best press for bushing and bearing insertion, and the important factors to consider.
Choosing the Best Press for Bushing and Bearing Insertion
The best press for bushing and bearing insertion depends somewhat on the types of bearings or bushings you’re working with, as well as the requirements of the process. Before we take a closer look at the best press for bearing insertion, let’s first consider a few factors that are helpful to know as you’re selecting a press.
Force
The force required for proper bearing insertion can vary widely. A press that exerts too much force on the housing, shaft, or bearings can cause the component to crack or deform, but a press that does not exert enough force will not get the job done.
Precision
Tolerances are important for every press job, and bearing insertion is no different. Some bushings or bearings require very tight tolerances and a high level of precision, while others are less exact. It’s helpful to know how precisely fitted the bearings must be, and how much room for error you have. Additional features, like force and distance monitoring, can verify you are getting a precise fit.
Distance and Control
Joining at various tolerances across various distances requires different force range and press capabilities. You want a press that can consistently deliver the required force for a perfect fit, with exceptional control and precision at each cycle.
Materials
The materials comprising the bearings, housing, and shaft are also important to note. Some materials are more likely to bend and warp, while others can crack, and others can withstand a great deal of force without damage.
Energy Use
Energy use is also important to consider for your bearing insertion press. Some presess require much more regular energy use than others, and this can seriously affect energy costs overall. If you’re looking for ways to conserve energy use, this will affect the type of press you choose for your bearing insertion job.
Safety Features
Innovative safety features, such as light curtains and two-handed touch controls, make working with presses much safer, without sacrificing efficiency. Considering these and other safety features in your press design can make your facility safer, and reduce your business’s liability.
What is the Best Press for Bushing and Bearing Insertion?
The best press for bushing and bearing insertion depends on the factors listed above, as well as other factors that are specific to the job. Let’s take a look at three types of presses that work well with different types of bearing insertion jobs.
Low-Force Presses for Bushing and Bearing Insertion
If you are working with bearings, shafts, or housings made from softer materials that may be damaged by high amounts of force, a low-force press may be ideal. A press with about 1200 to 5,000 pounds of force, like the A-Series Adjustable air press, may be a great fit for these types of applications.
Types of Bushings and Bearings:
- Bronze or Brass Bushings
- PTFE / Plastic / Nylon Bushings
- Needle Roller Bearings
- Smaller Diameter Tapered Roller Bearings
Mid-Force Presses for Bushing and Bearing Insertion
A mid-force press is suitable for many different types of bearing insertion jobs. A press with about 2.5 to 15 tons of force, like the C-Series Air-Over-Oil press, can accomplish most bearing insertions. This generalist, hydropneumatic press is at home in a variety of different environments, from automobile bearings to consumer appliances and many more.
Types of Bushings and Bearings:
- Roller Bearings / Bearing Cups
- Ball Bearing
- Spherical Roller Bearings
- Steel Bushings
Using a manually activated or high power hydraulic press for your bushing or bearing insertion job? We have a more efficient option.
Take a look at this example: a 2.5 ton Air-Over-Oil Press configured for safe and consistent bearing insertion. View Case Study ›
High-Force Presses for Bushing and Bearing Insertion
Large, heavy-duty bearings, such as those used in construction equipment, mining equipment, or aeronautics, often require high-force presses. Hydraulic presses with about 20 to 50 tons of force, like the HP-Series Hydraulic Press, are ideal for these types of intensive jobs involving larger parts, tighter tolerances, deeper distances, or a combination of these factors.
Types of Bushings and Bearings:
- Roller Bearings / Bearing Cups with tight tolerances
- Large Steel Bushings
- Robust Ball Bearings
If you’re unsure which press is ideal for your bushing or bearing insertion job, contact us. We can give you more information on any of our press models, and help you find the right press for bearing insertion.