PTFE Bridge Bearing & Sliding Plates — PTFE Slide Bearings
Technical Specification
| Material: | Virgin PTFE or filled PTFE sliding sheet; plain or dimpled (lubrication pockets) |
|---|---|
| Mating Surface: | Polished stainless steel plate (supplied on request) |
| Forms: | Loose PTFE sheet, PTFE bonded to steel backing plate, recessed (confined) PTFE, cut pads |
| Typical Thickness: | Approx. 2 mm to 10 mm PTFE layer, depending on design |
| Design References: | Bridge bearing standards such as EN 1337-2 (sliding elements), or the project specification |
| Supply: | To drawing or project specification |
| Note: | Figures are typical; confirm exact grade, size and rating with our team |
Why PTFE Sliding Plates?
- Low friction: PTFE sliding on polished stainless steel lets structures move with very low resistance
- Accommodates movement: absorbs thermal expansion, shrinkage and small rotations
- Maintenance-free: no greasing needed for most pipe supports; dimpled sheet holds lubricant in bridge bearings
- Chemical and weather resistance: unaffected by moisture, UV and most chemicals
Applications
- Sliding elements in bridge bearings (pot, spherical and elastomeric sliding bearings)
- Pipe shoes and pipe supports in refineries and process plants
- Steel structure expansion joints and building slide bearings
- Tank, vessel and heavy equipment bases
- Conveyor and gantry rails
Plain or Dimpled PTFE?
Plain PTFE sheet is used for pipe supports and general slide bearings. Dimpled PTFE sheet has small pockets that hold silicone grease, which lowers friction and wear in bridge bearings over long service lives. See our PTFE Dimple Sheet.
Information to Send
- Drawing or plate size and thickness
- Plain or dimpled, bonded or loose, recessed or flat
- Vertical load and expected movement
- Whether stainless steel mating plates are required
See also: Bridge Bearing Pads, PTFE (Teflon) Products, and our PTFE & Filled PTFE Technical Data Sheet (PDF).
Send us your drawing or sizes, the grade, quantity and service conditions, and our Al Khobar team will confirm availability, lead time and a quotation for delivery anywhere in Saudi Arabia and the GCC. Every order is supplied with a Material Test Certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is a PTFE sliding plate?
A. A PTFE layer that slides against a polished stainless steel plate, letting a bridge, pipe or structure move with very low friction.
Q2. Why is stainless steel used with PTFE slide plates?
A. A polished stainless steel mating surface gives the lowest, most consistent friction and resists corrosion.
Q3. What is dimpled PTFE used for?
A. Dimpled PTFE holds lubricant in its pockets and is used in bridge bearing sliding elements.
Q4. Can you supply PTFE bonded to steel plates?
A. Yes, PTFE can be supplied bonded to steel backing plates to your drawing.