Bearing supports for pumps

Bearing supports are special bearings mounted on the drive shaft of hydraulic pumps, especially gear pumps. They absorb external shear forces as well as axial and radial loads generated by drives such as V-belts or chains. This relieves the internal pump bearings, extends service life, and reduces failures caused by bearing damage.

Bearing supports are made of robust materials designed to withstand high loads. Typical characteristics:

• Bearings: High-quality steel or special alloys, often complemented by plastic or rubber elements for damping.
• Housing: Typically made of cast steel or aluminum.
• Gears and shafts: Made of hardened steel.

Available frame sizes include:

• Group 2 (BG2)
• Group 3 (BG3)

They differ in shaft diameters (e.g. cylindrical 18h7, Ø24 mm with keyway, tapered 1:8), pilot diameters (36.5 mm, 72 mm, 50.75 mm), and flange types (e.g. rectangular flange).

Bearing supports are used in hydraulic systems, particularly when pumps are belt- or chain-driven. Typical applications:

• Industrial systems: For machines and equipment under high loads.
• Commercial vehicles: e.g. tail lifts or hydraulic lifting systems.
• Agricultural and forestry machinery: For equipment operating under harsh conditions.

Advantages of bearing supports:

• Protection of main bearings: Absorbs damaging forces.
• Longer service life: Significantly increased pump reliability.
• Reduced maintenance: Less wear due to relieved load.
• Design flexibility: Enables the use of belt or chain drives.

Installation is carried out on the pump shaft, usually via a key and cylindrical bore. Key points:

• Precise matching of shaft diameter, pilot diameter, and flange type.
• Accurate alignment to avoid uneven loads.
• If required, installation of gears and electromechanical adjustments.

Bearing supports require little maintenance, but regular checks should be carried out:

• Check for play and unusual noises.
• Lubrication if required, depending on bearing type.
• Timely replacement in case of wear.

Service life and reliability depend greatly on load, operating conditions, and correct installation.

Examples of common models:

• Group 2 (BG2): Tapered shaft 1:8 or cylindrical shaft 18h7, pilot diameters 36.5 mm or 72 mm, for pumps with rectangular flange (gear required).
• Group 3 (BG3): Tapered shaft 1:8 or cylindrical shaft Ø24 mm with keyway, pilot diameter 50.75 mm, also for rectangular flanges (gear required).

Key selection criteria:

• Shaft and flange dimensions: Must match the pump precisely.
• Load capacity: Maximum forces must be considered.
• Drive type: Belt, chain, or other.
• Operating environment: Temperature, dust, and humidity influence material selection.