Slide bearings work because the friction bearing surfaces of upper and lower (or inner and outer) slides have been separated by slide bearing materials—either ball bearings or rollers—that reduce friction.

We may tend to take the slide bearings in our desk or cabinet drawers for granted, but when they malfunction they suddenly become important. Now consider how vital the slide bearings you use in other applications really are. Here's a quick checklist of how to make sure you're buying the best; if you're not directly familiar with the equipment in question, consult your engineering department for answers to these questions:

1. What applications do you need sliding bearings for?

2. What material should your bearings be made of? (This depends on your answer to question No. 1)

3. What sort of maintenance are you or your company prepared to provide?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find out what those slide bearings are for

There's a vast difference between ball bearing drawer slides and an industrial slide bearing. Make sure you know exactly what the slide bearings you're purchasing will be used for and how much of a load they'll be expected to carry.

I recommend: Shop the Industrial Quick Search Manufacturer Directory to find an extensive listing of vendors that can sell you heavy-duty slide bearings. Rockler Woodworking and Hardware is a good source for light-duty drawer slide bearings and other office or furniture applications.

Choose between steel, cast iron or plastic slide bearings

Because the load-bearing surface of ball bearings is relatively small, it's vital that any bearings or bearing slides you purchase are made from the right material.

I recommend: Most ball bearings are typically made from steel or nickel, but you can contact Slideways for plastic bearings, including custom units. Graphite slides and slide bearing materials, as well as Meehanite (cast iron) materials are available from Con-Serv. Your engineering department will be able to tell you if these materials are appropriate; if you're not sure, contact the manufacturer directly.

Take good care of your slide bearings

Dust, friction, choice of lubrication, load, and duration of load can all affect slide bearing life. Check with both your engineering department and the manufacturer of any bearings you're using to make sure you're doing everything to extend the life of your products. Remember: Maintenance is less expensive than replacement.

I recommend: If you're concerned about your company's ability to provide the necessary maintenance or just looking to streamline your process, Daemar produces Dryslide self-lubricating slide bearings, and Igus produces a line of maintenance-free slide bearings as well.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Linear ball bearing slides have a lower friction coefficient than rotary bearings, which can translate to less maintenance and longer product life. You can further extend the maintenance on your ball slides by consulting with your engineering department or consulting the manufacturer to be certain you're using the proper lubricant, depending on temperature, friction and load.