[TowerTalk] Bearings for Axial Load

[Clay Autery]

If "I" were going to make a plastic sleeve bearing like y'all are
talking about, I might do it as a composite.

Sandwich alternating layers of PTFE and an appropriate grade of PE (HDPE
might not be the right choice, I don't know).

I think I would cut discs of an appropriate size to match a UV
resistant/proof cylindrical container (preferably a slight interference
fit).

Press them all in and have a PTFE disc on top and bottom (exposed). 
(You could even cap the cylinder on both ends with a suitable oversized
hole to clear the mast and wear tolerances.  The caps could be used for
the mounts)

THEN, machine/bore the correct diameter hole through the disc sandwich
to fit your application...

Just a swag... no real thought given to the design.  ;)

73,

______________________
Clay Autery, KY5G
MONTAC Enterprises
(318) 518-1389

On 7/16/2017 3:30 PM, Grant Saviers wrote:
> TFE is very UV resistant.  Promoted to replace glass on solar panels.
> https://www.chemours.com/Teflon_Industrial/en_US/assets/downloads/k23269_Teflon_films.pdf
>
>
> However, it is subject to significant mechanical creep.  Early wire
> wrap wire TFE insulation was known to "cut through" over time if
> routed too tightly against a wire wrap post.
>
> Grant KZ1W
>