Low Friction Linings

It is a lightweight, flexible alternative to metallic and polymeric coatings and, in some cases, even rigid bearings that enable weight and space savings. Indeed, in some cases, these LFLs result in longer-lasting performance and more economical solutions than nickel or chrome-plated parts. 

In essence, a Low Friction Lining is a composite of different films such as fluoropolymer (typically PTFE) and reinforcing fabric that acts as a linear glide-bearing surface. It provides highly reliable low-friction properties over many cycles, even at elevated or freezing temperatures, with minimum impact on the device in terms of extra thickness or added weight.

A Low Friction Lining is required in various components such as electromagnetic solenoids, actuators, sliding roof systems, and printer fuser roll pressure pads to minimize the force required to move one item against another static surface. 

This material's purpose is driven by the need to make these devices more energy efficient by reducing friction. Therefore, using such LFLs means lower power consumption and more consistent forward and backward movement with minimum hysteresis or "slip-stick" effects. Additionally, it is crucial in specific applications to minimize the noise generated by the movement and to perform consistently even at elevated temperatures up to 200°C or higher and throughout the device's entire lifetime.

These products are an essential alternative for design engineers and can potentially replace messy greases, oils or lubricants that will wear out or need frequent "topping-up". They can also replace metallic coatings such as stainless steel, electroless nickel or chrome that are expensive and difficult to get in consistent quality and polymeric coatings such as PTFE on steel that are often consumed before the device has reached its expected lifetime. 

Furthermore, Versiv™ LFLs are an alternative to other polymeric bearings, e.g., polypropylene or polyamide, which have a limited application range and are restricting design features due to the nature of the base polymers. When the application conditions require consistently low or controlled friction performance at elevated temperatures, minimum hysteresis or noise generation, and long-term compatibility with oils and chemical additives, Versiv Low Friction Linings are an excellent design option. 

The ability to tailor these products, which are inherently transparent to electrical and magnetic signals, and to meet specific requirements, such as high electrical insulation or static dissipation, means they are a flexible solution in designing many electro-mechanical parts.

In addition to allowing repetitive smooth, consistent movement of parts with low energy consumption, the key advantages of LFLs are the lightweight and flexible form of these linings and the simplification of component design. 

The durability of the Low Friction Linings in a range of environments also reduces waste in manufacturing operations and improves the ultimate performance in the day-to-day use of many electro-mechanical parts.

This functionality ultimately depends on the application, which may vary from a flat linear surface in the case of car sunroof track systems to cylindrical sleeves in high-pressure, fast-reaction electromagnetic solenoids. 

The key benefit is reduced friction which enables the consistent movement of parts with low energy consumption due to the durable, easy-slide, self-lubricating, low-friction surface. These LFLs maintain reliable performance over the device's lifetime while minimizing the extra weight and dimensional burden that often comes with alternative materials.

These Versiv Low Friction Linings are a permanent easy slide surface and will work consistently through a wide range of temperatures from -150 to + 260°C and are compatible with most chemicals. They are not consumed like oils or lubricants, so they do not need replacement and eliminate the risk of contamination of other parts. 

They have enabled consistently lower hysteresis levels in a range of electromagnetic solenoid designs and reduced noise in sunroof shade sliding applications. In the case of high-speed printers, these linings ensure reliable long-term performance with minimum energy consumption. They have high dielectric strength, which enables their use as coil linings in superconducting magnets and as sleeves on high-performance electrical slip rings.