Introduction
A salmon and trout producer in Northern Norway tested Extreme Bearings on their processing line after experiencing high failure rates with previous bearing types. High-pressure cleaning at up to 30 bar and harsh industrial chemicals were destroying conventional bearings.
The Challenge
Food safety regulations require thorough cleaning of fish processing equipment. This facility uses high-pressure washing up to 30 bar (435 psi) with harsh industrial chemicals to ensure complete sanitization. Previous bearings experienced high failure rates because water and chemicals penetrated the seals despite their pressure ratings. Each failure caused production stops and emergency maintenance.
The Solution
Extreme Bearing units designed specifically for washdown environments. The sealing system is engineered to resist high-pressure water ingress. AISI 316 stainless steel housing resists attack from industrial cleaning chemicals. All external surfaces are designed to shed water and chemicals rather than trap them.
Results
The facility experienced a significant reduction in downtime after installing Extreme Bearings. The units withstand daily 30-bar pressure washing without water penetration. Chemical resistance prevents corrosion and degradation. The processor now specs Extreme Bearings for all new equipment installations.
Key Takeaways
- 30-bar pressure resistance requires engineered seal design, not just standard seals
- AISI 316 stainless resists harsh industrial cleaning chemicals
- Washdown-specific bearing design prevents water trap ping
- Reduced downtime delivers rapid return on investment