Overview
Nylon thrust washers are flat, load-bearing rings used to take up axial thrust and separate rotating from stationary surfaces. Nylon’s low friction, high toughness, and good compressive strength make thrust washers that protect expensive metal faces from galling and wear while running dry or with minimal lubrication.
ORRO Manufacturing produces nylon thrust washers in cast and extruded grades, cut and machined to precise thickness, flatness, and bore tolerances. We machine grooves, chamfers, and lubrication features as needed and can supply washers in matched sets for consistent axial clearance.
Material Properties
| Property | Cast Nylon (PA6) |
|---|---|
| Density (g/cm³) | 1.13 - 1.16 |
| Compressive Strength (MPa) | 80 - 100 |
| Hardness (Rockwell R) | 110 - 120 |
| Max Continuous Temperature (°C) | 100 - 120 |
| Coefficient of Friction (vs. steel) | 0.20 - 0.30 |
| Limiting PV (MPa·m/s) | 0.10 - 0.20 |
| Water Absorption at Saturation (%) | 2.5 - 3.0 |
Key Advantages
- Protects Mating Surfaces: Low friction prevents galling and fretting of costly steel or aluminum faces.
- High Load Capacity: Compressive strength of 80-100 MPa supports substantial axial thrust.
- Shock Absorption: Toughness cushions impact loads in oscillating or reversing mechanisms.
- Dry Running: Self-lubricating enough for unlubricated service, with good performance when greased.
- Low Weight and Cost: Lightweight alternative to bronze and needle thrust bearings.
- Corrosion Resistant: Unaffected by moisture and most industrial chemicals.
Typical Applications
Gearbox and Reducer Assemblies
Thrust washers behind gears and shafts that take up axial clearance and protect bearing faces.
Pumps and Valves
Thrust rings in centrifugal pumps, screw pumps, and valve stems that resist dry-running and chemical exposure.
General Machinery and Automation
Axial spacers and wear washers in linkages, actuators, and packaging machinery.
Machining Capabilities
| Parameter | Capability |
|---|---|
| Tolerance | ±0.05 mm (thickness), ±0.05 mm (bore) |
| Surface Finish | Ra 1.6 μm (faces) |
| Size Range | 10 mm to 300 mm outside diameter |
| Key Processes | CNC turning, facing, boring, grooving |
Application Case
Gearbox thrust washer, cast nylon — A gearbox manufacturer needed dry-running thrust washers to replace bronze washers that were galling under shock loads. ORRO machined cast-nylon washers to a ±0.05 mm thickness with a machined oil groove, delivering 12,000 pieces in 18 days. The nylon washers eliminated galling and reduced gearbox noise by 4 dB.
