Bearing Box Retrofit Extends Can Washer Life

The client experienced repeated, premature bearing failure within their industrial washer systems, resulting in frequent downtime and increased maintenance costs. Root cause analysis identified the failure point as a standard shaft slinger, which was insufficient for the aggressive operations of a can washer.

Specifically, the slinger failed to prevent the migration of acidic process water. The corrosive fluid was able to bridge the gap from the interior of the washer hood to the exterior environment via the rotating shaft. Once the acidic solution infiltrated the bearing housing, it rapidly degraded the lubrication and corroded the bearing elements.

The engineering team replaced the failed slinger with a proprietary labyrinth seal. Unlike the previous component, this seal utilizes a complex, non-contact tortuous path that creates a hydrodynamic barrier, effectively rendering it impossible for process water to escape the washer hood, even under high-pressure operation.

This sealing technology was integrated into a custom HeatTek bearing box, engineered for maximum chemical resistance. The housing is fabricated from 316L Stainless Steel, selected for its high molybdenum content and superior resistance to pitting in acidic environments. To further ensure longevity, the entire assembly underwent nitric hot dip passivation prior to installation. This process removed surface contaminants and free iron, promoting the formation of a passive oxide layer that acts as a shield against corrosion.

The retrofit resulted in the elimination of fluid migration along the shaft.

• Extended Asset Life: Bearing life has increased significantly due to total isolation from the corrosive acidic water, creating a pristine operating environment for the mechanical components.
• Structural Integrity: The 316L stainless steel bearing box, reinforced by the passivation process, has shown zero signs of degradation or surface rust, ensuring structural stability in a harsh wash-down environment.
• Operational ROI: The facility has seen a measurable reduction in unscheduled maintenance intervals and replacement part costs.