Introduction
An engineering company commissioned to design a pet food production plant in the Netherlands faced a common but difficult challenge: bearings on meat conveyors would be continuously exposed to dripping fat, oil, and moist ingredients.
The Challenge
Pet food manufacturing processes meat and other moist, fatty ingredients. Conveyors transport raw materials, and gravity causes oils, fats, and meat particles to drip downward onto the bearings below. This contamination attracts dust, creates a sticky mess, and can penetrate seals on conventional bearings. The combination of organic contamination and moisture creates ideal conditions for bearing failure.
The Solution
After researching online, the engineering company discovered Extreme Bearings and determined they were ideal for this application. The robust sealing system prevents oil and fat from penetrating to the bearing. AISI 316 stainless steel housing can be pressure-washed clean without corrosion. The smooth exterior surfaces don't trap contamination.
Results
The pet food plant operates with reliable bearing performance despite constant exposure to oils and fats. The sealed design keeps contamination out of the bearing internals. Regular pressure washing maintains cleanliness without damaging the bearings. Production continues without bearing-related interruptions.
Key Takeaways
- Robust sealing prevents oil and fat penetration
- Stainless steel surfaces resist food-grade oils and can be pressure-washed
- Smooth housing exterior doesn't trap sticky contamination
- Online research helped engineering firm find the right solution