Hanger bearings are used as rotary bearings for drive shafts and screw conveyor shafts. Typically, these industrial shafts are closed with casings or troughs. Hanger bearings consist of split roller bearings in cast iron split housings with threaded bosses to provide suspension for conveyor cross supports. Rotational fixation at the cross-bracing joint is recommended to align the bearings. The frame of the suspension bearing is mounted on the top or side of the housing. Bearings are suspended in the center for shaft mounting. Suspension bearings are widely used in agricultural applications and heavy industry. They are also used in automotive, aircraft, and marine driveshaft assemblies.

Structure & Material of hanger bearings

Housings for hanger bearings are available in one- or two-piece (split) construction. The one-piece housing cannot be removed. Two-piece or split housings are bolted together and can be removed for bearing replacement or general maintenance. Hanger bearings are specified by the bearing's inner shaft diameter, bearing type (plain or rolling element), housing and frame arrangement and dimensions, and materials of construction. Hanger bearings can be purchased with the frame or separately.

Hanger bearings are manufactured from cast iron, wood, bronze, steel, ceramic, polyurethane and a variety of plastics, thermoplastics and polymers. The materials used in hanger bearings should be determined by the application in which they are used. Wood is ideal for intermediate hangers conveying moderately abrasive materials such as pulp, grain and chemicals. Bronze hanger bearings are usually oil immersed for self-lubricating.

Types of hanger bearings

Hanger bearings are available in two basic styles: plain or rolling element. Plain hanger bearings have continuous surface contact between the inner and outer races. Roller hanger bearings have rolling elements between the inner and outer races to reduce friction.

When working with hanger bearings, it is essential to provide continuous lubrication; however, some manufacturers offer self-lubricating hanger bearings. Ceramic inserts for hanger bearings are also available. Ceramic hanger bearing inserts can extend the hanger bearing’s lifespan, reduce noise, and increase journal and shaft life. In addition, air purge seals or other types of seals are recommended to extend the lifespan of hanger bearings.