Steatite Ceramic Bushings - LSP Industrial Ceramics, Inc.

Steatite ceramic bushings, also known as eyelets or ferrules, exhibit excellent dielectric and thermal properties, making them ideal for use as electrical bushings and in high temperature applications. The material offers outstanding durability. Steatite ceramic bushings are commonly used as antenna insulators, to support wires, rods, or grids in ovens, and as wire guides in high voltage electrical equipment, among other uses.

What is Steatite?

Steatite, also known as soapstone, is a metamorphic rock that is commonly used in the manufacturing of bushings. Bushings are components used in machinery to provide a bearing surface for a rotating shaft or axle. They are designed to reduce friction and wear between moving parts while supporting and guiding the motion of the shaft.

Some of the characteristics of steatite that make it suitable for bushings include:

Low Coefficient of Friction: Steatite has a low coefficient of friction, meaning it can reduce the resistance between moving parts. This is important in bushings to minimize wear and heat generation during rotation.

High Thermal Stability: Steatite is known for its ability to withstand high temperatures. Where bushings may be exposed to elevated temperatures due to friction or environmental factors, steatite can maintain its structural integrity.

Chemical Inertness: Steatite is chemically inert, meaning it is resistant to corrosion and chemical reactions. This property is beneficial in bushings, especially in industries where the bushings are exposed to harsh chemicals or environments.

Mechanical Strength: While not as hard as some other materials used in bushings, steatite still possesses sufficient mechanical strength to withstand the loads and stresses encountered in typical bushing applications.

Electrical Insulation: Steatite is also an electrical insulator, which makes it suitable where electrical insulation is required between rotating and stationary components.

What is a Bushing?

A bushing is a type of bearing or sleeve that is used to constrain, guide, or reduce friction in a mechanical system. It is a cylindrical-shaped part that is often made of ceramic materials due to its excellent wear resistance, high hardness, and low friction properties.

Ceramic bushings are commonly used in situations where traditional metal bushings may not be suitable, such as in high-temperature environments, corrosive conditions, or where electrical insulation is required.

The specific properties of ceramic materials, such as alumina, zirconia, or silicon carbide, make them well-suited for bushings. For example, ceramic bushings may be used in electrical insulators, ball bearings, or as components in pumps and valves.

The choice of ceramic material for a bushing depends on the specific requirements, including factors such as temperature, load, and environmental conditions.

Eyelets and Ferrules

Eyelets and ferrules are components that play important roles in the overall functionality and performance of the bushings.

Eyelets

Function: Eyelets are small, typically tubular components often used for electrical or mechanical applications.
Electrical Insulation: Steatite ceramic is known for its excellent electrical insulation properties. Eyelets made from steatite ceramic can be used to provide insulation between conductive components, preventing electrical conduction or short circuits.
Mechanical Support: Eyelets can also be used to reinforce and provide structural support to the ceramic bushing. They may be strategically placed to enhance the overall strength and durability of the bushing.

Ferrules

Function: A ferrule is a ring or cap, typically made of metal, used to provide additional support, reinforcement, or a termination point for a component.
Termination and Support: Ferrules may be employed to terminate the ends of the bushing or to provide additional support at critical points. This can be particularly important in applications where the bushing is subjected to mechanical stress or where it needs to be securely attached to other components.
Thermal Stability: Depending on the material and design of the ferrule, it can also contribute to the thermal stability of the overall assembly. Steatite ceramic, with its high thermal resistance, can enhance the performance of the ferrule in high-temperature environments.

Eyelets made from steatite ceramic may be used for electrical insulation and mechanical support within the ceramic bushing. Ferrules, typically made of metal, can be employed for termination, support, and to enhance thermal stability. The combination of these components contributes to the overall reliability and functionality of steatite ceramic bushings, including those requiring electrical insulation and resistance to high temperatures.

About LSP Industrial Ceramics

LSP Industrial Ceramics, Inc. (LSP) is a technical and industrial ceramic products manufacturing and distributing company, based out of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, with over 40 years of industrial & technical ceramic experience.

We maintain a large, in-stock inventory of steatite ceramic bushings in a range of standard sizes, diameters, and thicknesses. We also offer specialty and hard-to-find sizes, available by special order. Available either glazed or unglazed.

If you are unsure of the right steatite bushing for your needs, feel free to contact us. LSP can help you find the best bushing for your specific needs.