Modern warehouses integrate many different kinds of technology, including automation and robotics, that revolutionize how goods are stored, sorted, retrieved, and transported. These changes are possible thanks to precision equipment and components and innovative engineering.
Bearings are an important part of automation and robotic equipment in many of these applications, including conveyor systems, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), or custom forklifts. In addition to the choice of bearing material and type, precision manufacturing is key to top performance in these and other material handling uses.
Emerson Bearings provides a comprehensive selection of bearings that meet the specific needs of warehouse automation equipment. Keep reading to learn more about some common applications and the types of bearings that they rely on.
Bearings for Conveyor Systems
In today's fast-paced warehouse environments, automated conveyance facilitates the efficient movement of products in and out of storage, through packaging lines, and to loading docks. This linear movement requires smooth, reliable bearings that can withstand heavy loads, high speeds, and continual use.
Common bearing types used in these conveyor systems include deep groove ball bearings and roller bearings. Since lubrication is a critical factor in these environments, sealed bearings can also help reduce maintenance and prevent contamination. At Emerson Bearings, we offer a wide range of mounted units, ball bearings, and rollers that are designed for automated conveyor systems.
AGV Bearings for Mobility and Control
Automated guided vehicles require little to no human intervention, and boost efficiency throughout warehouses. These machines rely on motion control and stabilizing technology, and bearings play a big part in their frictionless movement. This is because the bearings in AGVs must be able to support radial and axial loads depending on the design and motion path. In this application, commonly used bearings include thin-section bearings and miniature ball bearings due to their compact size and lightweight properties. Emerson Bearings provides quality solutions for AGVs that can help reduce the risk of mechanical failure.
Custom Forklift Gripper Bearings
Warehouses often use customized forklifts with advanced attachments such as grippers and chain-driven lift mechanisms. These require heavy-duty bearings capable of handling high-impact loads and repetitive stresses.
For forklift grippers and attachments, bearings need precision alignment, shock resistance, and durability in demanding motion sequences.
Chain-driven forklifts use chain bearings because they can handle continuous lifting forces. Alternatively, spherical roller bearings and thrust bearings are a good option for high-load pivot points and lift mechanisms.
For many custom forklifts, Mast Guide Bearings are used, as these heavy-duty bearings assist in guiding the mast along the rail. At Emerson Bearings, we provide high-performance solutions for customized forklift applications to OEMs and maintenance teams. We can help match your equipment with the perfect bearings to ensure a long and reliable service life.
Emerson Bearing's Support for Warehouse Automation
If you're in need of quality robotics and automation bearings to support your warehouse operations, consider partnering with Emerson Bearings. We work with a variety of manufacturers and facilities looking to optimize their automated systems through custom bearing solutions; however, our support extends beyond providing parts. From design to delivery, we provide expert support and inventory management at every step of the way so you have the resources you need when you need them. We offer a wide variety of bearings for all types of automation equipment, including;
- Conveyors.
- AGVs.
- Robotic arms and grippers.
- Forklifts.
We also provide our customers with valuable services including application engineering, same-day shipping, and sourcing for hard-to-find bearings. By choosing to work with us, you gain an experienced team of industry professionals who understand how mechanical components fit into large-scale automation strategies. Then we'll help bring that strategy to life with the right parts for your application.
Choosing the Right Bearings for the Job
Quality bearings are essential for efficiency in industrial and warehouse environments that rely on robotics and other types of automation. Emerson Bearings has over 50 years of experience supplying bearings to a wide range of domestic and international customers, and we have the knowledge and experience to help you choose the right bearings for your application. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services, or to request a quote.
