In demanding operational environments like the marine and industrial sectors, hinge bushings face significant challenges. These environments often involve exposure to grit, moisture, temperature extremes, and very unfavorable wear-inducing conditions. ThorPlas-Blue, a leading solution for these hurdles, has demonstrated its value in a variety of settings, as seen in three enlightening case studies. 

In the luxury marine world, a private yacht owner grappled with similar bushing issues on their hydraulic swim platform. Here, the bronze bearings were seizing, requiring costly and time-consuming drydocking every 18 months. 

The introduction of ThorPlas-Blue bearings in May 2021 addressed these issues effectively. The bearings have been in excellent condition since their installation, minimizing maintenance costs and downtime. This story bears valuable lessons for heavy industrial applications, where moving parts can also seize or wear out without proper lubrication. 

Case Study 1: The Navy’s Landing Craft Utility (LCU)

Ramp Door Hinge Bushing System 

In the context of the navy’s demanding operations, the Landing Craft Utility (LCU) ramp door hinge bushings faced immense challenges in their original greased bronze configuration, from regular exposure to harsh sea elements to difficulties with proper lubrication. The outcome was frequent seizing and increased wear and damage to the bushings. 

The solution came in September 2017 with the implementation of ThorPlas-Blue. Offering long-wearing, low-maintenance properties, it eliminated the challenges of improper lubrication, seizing, and increased wear. This success offers intriguing implications for industrial machinery, especially those exposed to similar challenging conditions. 

Case Study 2: Private Yacht Hydraulic Swim Platform 

In the luxury marine world, a private yacht owner grappled with similar bushing issues on their hydraulic swim platform. Here, the bronze bearings were seizing, requiring costly and time-consuming drydocking every 18 months. 

The introduction of ThorPlas-Blue bearings in May 2021 addressed these issues effectively. The bearings have been in excellent condition since their installation, minimizing maintenance costs and downtime. This story bears valuable lessons for heavy industrial applications, where moving parts can also seize or wear out without proper lubrication. 

Case Study 3: Niagara Parks Tunnel Protection Gates 

Moving to an industrial application, the newly opened Niagara Parks tailrace tunnel tourist attraction presented a unique challenge. Large gates, situated at the exit of a large tunnel near the base of Niagara Falls, required hinge bushings and washers to support the gates and withstand constant water spray, submersion, and potential for significant ice buildup.  The hinge needed to support the entire gate weight as well as high loads expected from potential ice and debris impact or buildup.  

Again, ThorPlas-Blue proved to be the ideal solution. The bushings and washers were designed, sized, and machined by Millstream Engineering to suit the exact requirements for this application. Despite the demanding conditions, the ThorPlas-Blue bearings were able to meet the requirements, including reliable service under constant exposure to water spray from the falls.  With rough material in stock at the Thordon factory, the finished bushings were supplied to the fabricator within two weeks, demonstrating the material’s availability and ability to delivery quickly to meet demanding construction schedules. 

Since their installation in July 2022, the ThorPlas-Blue bearings have performed well, ensuring smooth movement of the gates, and secure protection of the tunnel opening during the off-season periods. The success of ThorPlas-Blue across these diverse case studies is a testament to its potential in both marine and industrial scenarios. With its self-lubricating properties and ability to eliminate the need for grease, ThorPlas-Blue holds its own against the demanding conditions of the sea, heavy machinery, and extreme environments like those at Niagara Falls. But more than that, it’s the expertise and dedication of the teamwork between Thordon Bearings and their partners that make these achievements possible. 

At Millstream Engineering, we understand that every hinge bushing application is unique, particularly those exposed to severe conditions. We see these challenges not as obstacles, but as opportunities to create robust, tailored solutions for our clients. Whether you’re dealing with marine operations that must withstand the might of the ocean, or industrial equipment that needs to perform reliably in harsh conditions, Millstream Engineering is committed to helping you find the right solution. 

We have a wealth of experience in designing and sizing components like the bushings and washers used in the Niagara Parks Tunnel Protection Gates, and we can deliver results quickly, as demonstrated by the two-week turnaround for that project. Our expertise with ThorPlas-Blue and other materials enables us to offer high-performing, long-lasting, and cost-effective solutions that meet your specific needs.