Mating surfaces

FIBERGLIDE, being non-metallic, will operate against most metals, but better performance is obtained with the hardest available mating surfaces. Hardened steel, hard anodized aluminum, hard chrome or nickel plate are recommended. A surface hardness of 45-50 R_c is desirable, but satisfactory performance can also be obtained with softer materials. Generally, a surface finish on the mating components of 16-32µ inch should be provided. Shaft materials or surface treatments should be selected that will effectively resist corrosion. Transport Dynamics recommends a max surface finish of 32 Rms and minimum hardness of 40Rc.

To determine the approximate reduction in life for different values of shaft finish and hardness, see below.