What is a water lubricated bearing?
A In the marine industry, rubber lined bearings, generally called ‘cutlass bearings’, have a long history of successful application. Water lubrication is cheaper and environmentally cleaner than say oil or grease lubricated stern gear for example. The fundamental principle of water lubricated bearings is based upon the ability to form a film of water between the shaft and bearing surface. The film of water is of sufficient volume to separate both surfaces. The materials used for the shell (which are usually made from tube) include naval brass, aluminium bronze, gunmetal and tin bronze.
