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In solar tracking systems, the choice of bearings for solar trackers is crucial. It not only affects the overall stability and lifespan of the system but also influences maintenance costs and operational efficiency. Common bearing materials in the market include metal and plastic. In this article, we will explore why you should opt for metal bearings with aluminum alloy housing and POM material sliding blocks rather than all-POM plastic bearings.

• Higher Strength and Rigidity

Aluminum housing bearings, offer significantly higher strength and rigidity. This enables them to provide more reliable support in solar tracking systems under constantly changing loads, reducing the risk of deformation and damage. In contrast, all-POM plastic bearings can easily deform under high-stress environments, affecting system accuracy and stability.

• Superior Wear Resistance and Longevity

POM sliding blocks are renowned for their excellent wear resistance, but this advantage is further enhanced when paired with metal housing. The metal housing provides a more robust outer protection, allowing the sliding block to maintain optimal performance under harsher conditions for a longer period. All-POM bearings may experience accelerated wear over time, leading to frequent replacements and maintenance.

• Better Heat Resistance

The heat resistance of aluminum alloy far surpasses that of POM. In high-temperature environments, metal bearings perform more stably and are less likely to deform or fail due to temperature fluctuations. GF New Energy conducted comparative tests in its own laboratory at temperatures of 25°C, 70°C, and -40°C under a load of 150Nm, comparing aluminum alloy housing + POM sliding block bearings with all-POM bearings. The results showed that aluminum alloy housing + POM sliding block bearings had stronger stability, while all-POM bearings experienced a decrease in strength or softening due to temperature changes, thereby affecting the system’s normal operation.

• Dimensional Stability and Environmental Resistance

Metal bearings offer better dimensional stability during processing, allowing for precise tolerance control and ensuring consistent performance during assembly and use. Although POM has low water absorption, in extreme environments, particularly where there are significant temperature fluctuations, all-POM bearings may experience dimensional changes that impact accuracy and lifespan.

• Corrosion Resistance and UV Resistance

While POM is resistant to most chemicals, it can still be affected by UV exposure or wind erosion in certain environments. Metal housing provides additional protection, ensuring that bearings maintain good performance in a broader range of chemical environments.

• Higher Load-Bearing Capacity

Metal bearings typically have a higher load-bearing capacity, which is particularly important in solar tracking systems. The design of aluminum alloy housing can distribute and withstand greater forces, allowing the entire system to operate smoothly under high load conditions. In contrast, all-POM bearings may fail prematurely due to material limitations when subjected to high loads.

• Competitive price and lower cost

Our products offer exceptional quality at a reasonable price. By optimizing production processes and carefully selecting materials, we ensure high performance and durability while reducing costs, providing our customers with the best value and solution for their investment.

• Conclusion

In solar tracking systems, choosing metal bearings with aluminum housing and POM sliding blocks can significantly enhance system reliability, durability, and long-term performance. While all-POM plastic bearings have their advantages in certain applications, for scenarios demanding higher strength, durability, and environmental adaptability, aluminum bearings are undoubtedly the superior choice.