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Case Studies of Thordon Bearings in Ontario’s Lock Systems

Case Studies of Thordon Bearings in Ontario's Lock Systems
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Case Studies of Thordon Bearings in Ontario’s Lock Systems

In our previous blog post, we explored the historical significance and modern innovations in Ontario’s lock systems. Today, we will examine specific case studies highlighting how Thordon bearings have been effectively utilized in the Welland Canal and the Kirkfield Lift Lock. These examples highlight the practical applications and benefits of Thordon’s advanced bearing materials in enhancing lock operations.

Case Study 1: Sheaves for Opening Doors in the Welland Canal

Welland Canal

Application: Rope and sheaves for opening doors

The Welland Canal, a critical component of the St. Lawrence Seaway, uses a complex system of ropes and sheaves to open and close its massive doors. Ensuring the smooth operation of these mechanisms is vital for the canal’s efficiency and reliability.

Application Details

Speed:
<10 RPM
Bearing Pressure:
Over 9.6 MPa (1400 psi)

To meet these demands, Thordon recommended the use of ThorPlas-Blue bearings for the original installation. This material is known for its high load capacity, low friction, and excellent wear resistance, making it ideal for the slow, heavy-duty operations in the Welland Canal.

Initial Retrofit Work:

  • 50 bearings and 100 washers were installed.
  • A second order included 122 bearings and 244 washers.
  • A third order has already been placed, underscoring the success and reliability of ThorPlas-Blue in this application.

Installation Date: December 2004 (1st order)

The ongoing orders and retrofits demonstrate the effectiveness of ThorPlas-Blue bearings in enhancing the performance and longevity of the Welland Canal’s door mechanisms.

Installation Date: December 2004 (1st order) The ongoing orders and retrofits demonstrate the effectiveness of ThorPlas-Blue bearings in enhancing the performance and longevity of the Welland Canal's door mechanisms.

Case Study 2: Kirkfield Lift Lock Equalizing Gate Hinge Bushings

The Kirkfield Lift Lock, part of the Trent-Severn Waterway, is another engineering marvel requiring robust and reliable components to maintain its functionality. The equalizing gates on the main gate play a crucial role in balancing water pressure, allowing the gate to open and close smoothly.

Application: Equalizing gate hinge bushings

Customer Requirement: The customer sought an alternative to bronze bushings to eliminate the need for grease and reduce maintenance costs. Millstream recommended ThorPlas-Blue material for the bushings due to its superior performance characteristics.

Gate hinge
Application Details

The equalizing gates pivot to let water through, balancing the pressure on both sides of the main gate. This balance is essential for the main gate to operate effectively without excessive force or wear.

Benefits of ThorPlas-Blue:

  • Maintenance-Free: Eliminates the need for grease, reducing maintenance time and costs.
  • Durable: Offers long-lasting performance even under high load and low-speed conditions.
  • Environmentally Friendly: By eliminating the need for lubrication, ThorPlas-Blue helps prevent contamination of the waterway.

The successful application of ThorPlas-Blue in the Kirkfield Lift Lock highlights the material’s versatility and reliability in demanding lock operations.

Kirkfield Lift Lock
Welland Canal
Kirkfield Lift Lock
Kirkfield Lift Lock

Conclusion

These case studies illustrate the significant impact Thordon bearings have had on the functionality and efficiency of Ontario’s lock systems. The use of ThorPlas-Blue in both the Welland Canal and the Kirkfield Lift Lock has provided substantial benefits, including reduced maintenance, improved performance, and enhanced environmental protection.