Typically used under beams, slabs, pipe networks, pressure vessels and tank rooms, conveyors, ducts and small span bridges, Herculon HLD bearings are part of a comprehensive range of Hercules composite slip joints and structural bearings incorporating engineered high performance combinations of engineered thermoplastics and metal facing surfaces.

They are engineered to minimise production downtime and maintenance by accommodating the vertical and horizontal stresses imposed by the shuddering and vibration of heavy motors, screens, processing equipment and the varying loads imposed by tanks, pipes and pressure vessels as they are loaded and unloaded, according to Hercules Engineering manager David Booty.

“Among the big plusses of HLD Bearings, compared with more complicated and costly alternatives such as roller bearings, are benefits such as lower initial cost, easier installation and no maintenance for periods of 30 years or more,” he said.

These sliding bearings – incorporating polymers proven globally for outstanding durability without lubrication or maintenance – were developed to fulfil the need for low-friction bearings on corbels and columns where continuous slip joints were not appropriate.

Type D Herculon Bearings are designed to accept a lateral load of 30% of the vertical rated load, which can be up to 600kN per bearing in stock sizes, with higher capacity available custom-engineered for particular applications.