faqs

Self-lubricating bushings are useful components to add to any assembly that may be exposed to repeated vibrations or friction between two components. At READY Technology, we operate across North America as an ISO 9001-certified manufacturer, supplier, and distributor of high-quality metal and plastic components. Learn more about self-lubricating bushings and how SinterLube products can enhance your assembly's performance and long-term capabilities.

Bushings are small components designed to separate tangential parts in an assembly to mitigate the risk of vibration, friction, and other potential wear hazards. They dampen the energy that can transfer across components, which both protects the assembly components and can increase the comfort or capabilities of the equipment fitted with bushings. Also called anti-vibration mountings or sleeve bearings, bushings come in a wide range of shapes and styles to best fit the needs of different assemblies.

Self-lubricating bushings are bushings specifically designed to eliminate the need for manual lubrication. Bushings can be impregnated with lubricants within the layer of the bushing that makes contact with other parts. Self-lube bushings either use fluid lubricants — such as oil or grease — or solid materials — such as lead or graphite. The construction, lubricant type, and bushing materials will vary based on the operating temperature, the weight of the assembly, and other specifics.
Self-lubricating bushings are crucial in the consistently reliable and long-lasting performance of equipment that may otherwise be susceptible to friction, vibrations, and premature wear. SinterLube self-lubricating bronze bushings are uniquely capable of providing these advantages of self-lubricating components because they:

  • Resist wear and won't lose their shape or dimensions after millions of cycles, leading to increased accuracy and reliability throughout years of use
  • Don't require ongoing maintenance and relubrication like bronze-plated bushing alternatives
  • Are built for easy installation, disassembly, and reassembly
  • Can be run in machines performing up to 800 1" strokes per minute without losing performance capabilities
  • Have a small minimum running clearance of up to three times smaller than that required for similar graphite plug bushings
  • Have a reduced cost due to fewer machining requirements and faster production
  • Can easily replace SinterLube sintered bronze bushings for trial runs or complete upgrades without any retrofitting complications or added costs
Some of the most popular applications for self-lubricating bushings include:

  • Use in submerged applications, where lubrication and maintenance can be difficult
  • Machinery used in high-temperature environments where liquid lubricants are unsuitable
  • Use in high-speed equipment and machinery with fast cycles and strokes
  • Food processing applications that can't risk contamination from solid or fluid lubricant debris
Guide elements assist with easy installations and sealing performance of self-lubricating elements across multiple different applications. They include pins or pegs that facilitate the correct placement of the component within a larger assembly and prevent metal-to-metal contact that can cause premature wear.

Order SinterLube Self-Lubricating Bushings From Ready Technology

At READY Technology, we have years of experience providing innovative solutions that help our manufacturing and industrial clients reduce manufacturing costs, increase production, and achieve more consistent in-house capabilities due to reduced maintenance and unscheduled downtime concerns. Browse our catalog to see our inventory or request a quote for pricing details.

READY Technology, Inc. is here to assist you with any questions that you might have about die springs or SuperSprings®, our patented die spring solution. This FAQ section includes information on what separates SuperSprings® from other die springs. With a unique design, we engineer SuperSprings® for durable, long-lasting performance, with four load classes and full interchangeability to ensure a guaranteed fit.

SuperSprings® are READY-improved die springs. These rectangular springs contain a trapezoidal cross-section wire of alloy steel that, when coiled, alters into a "D" section to enhance stress resistance. This, along with advanced manufacturing techniques such as shot peening and heat treating, allows the springs to last longer than conventional die springs. Compliant with ISO 10243 for uniform diameters and lengths as well as load ratings and die spring color codes, we produce over 400 varieties of SuperSprings® for safe, dependable performance. SuperSprings® also provide better value as they offer consistent dimensional accuracy and more precise spring rates.
Die springs, or high compression springs, are a high-force variety of compression springs with a rectangular wire construction to withstand extreme stress or fatigue. Heavy-duty die springs are capable of handling up to 30% more load as compared to traditional compression springs, and they can handle high temperatures and harsh environments.
Although they are known as die springs, these springs work in a number of applications in addition to dies
for pressing or punching machinery. Some of the many applications for die springs include:

 
  • Although they are known as die springs, these springs work in a number of applications in addition to dies
    for pressing or punching machinery. Some of the many applications for die springs include:
  • Aircraft mechanisms
  • Brakes
  • Clutches
  • Farm equipment
  • Heavy-load and high-stress applications
  • Heavy machinery assemblies
  • High-temperature environments
The rectangular wire in die springs lends unique capabilities to these springs, which are typically found in applications offering limited space for the spring component. Using rectangular rather than circular wire, the cross-section area of the die spring features a larger mass, which results in greater applicable force and the capacity to store that compressed energy. The shape also reduces the chance that the springs will buckle.
Most die springs feature materials like oil-hardened steel, Chrome Silicon (CrSi), Chrome Vanadium (CrV), or their hybrid alloy, Chrome Silicon Vanadium (CrSiV). The chromium layer can increase die springs' strength and accuracy as well as their resistance to wear and corrosion. At READY, we produce our SuperSprings® from vacuum-degassed, valve spring quality alloy steel.
Die springs have two main coil configurations: closed-end and open-end. Both end configurations allow for grounding to form a flat, perpendicular surface to bear spring load. SuperSprings® use closed-end coils.


Closed-end die springs have a pitch that's reduced to the wire termination point, where the wire end sits on the coil next to it. This renders the last turn in the spring's coil configuration ineffective and incomplete, which can slightly alter the spring's compression. Alternatively, open-end die springs don't include a pitch reduction. This can form an uneven surface along the spring without grounding, but this may not significantly affect die machinery.
Compression and die springs use different designs for different ranges of functionality. Most applications requiring springs use compression springs, which have a circular wire configuration. When a task applies pressure to these springs, they shorten and store mechanical energy during compression, resisting the compressive force. Electronic devices and many other products use compression springs. Die springs are heavy-duty compression springs that withstand greater force than traditional compression springs. Their rectangular wire spring design and increased mass make them more suitable for applications involving harsh environments and high loads, including heavy machinery assemblies and automotive applications.

High-Quality SuperSprings® From READY Technology, Inc.

Die springs offer more support for high-load, heavy-duty applications than other compression springs. READY's SuperSprings® allow users to benefit from their enhanced capabilities, providing superior quality as compared to standard die springs. We utilize our state-of-the-art CNC coiling and grinding machinery to achieve tight tolerances and reliable accuracy in our springs.


With four load classes, a longer service life, dependable performance, and interchangeable designs, SuperSprings® have the versatility and quality to fit your application. For more information, we invite you to browse our catalog.

This page answers several common questions about gas springs in general and Ready Technology's gas springs specifically. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision about which type of springs are appropriate for your application.

Like traditional mechanical springs, nitrogen springs store energy for metal forming with a press, tooling, and dies. Nitrogen springs are hydro-pneumatic and consist of an outer cylindrical housing and inner piston. The piston is operated by pressurized nitrogen gas that is sealed inside the cylinder.

In terms of operating strength (measured in decanewtons (daN)), one gas spring can replace up to 10 traditional mechanical springs in a much smaller amount of physical space. When fully charged the force remains smooth and consistent from initial contact to final stroke, which gives you more control over the metal forming process.

Depending on the required stroke length the housing may be made of one or two pieces. Shorter housings are bore-sealed and longer ones are sealed with a separate end cap. Ready’s Design-Tite nitrogen springs are unique in that they use a cap design that is both threaded and welded, for added safety and utility.
Many industries use nitrogen gas springs including OEM and aftermarket automotive, aerospace, furniture, and HVAC industries.

Because of their instant, significant force, nitrogen springs are widely used in metal stamping press applications. They are an excellent choice where a durable, high speed stroke is needed, and can easily form shapes out of tough metals that require high forces or heavy loads.
Nitrogen springs provide a consistent and quick stroke speed and force and are more versatile than mechanical springs. Some of the benefits of gas springs include:

  • Longevity: Nitrogen gas springs are very durable and, when properly installed, have a long life expectancy. Under correct operating conditions they can last over 2,000,000 cycles. In contrast, mechanical springs wear out and lose their ability to store energy over time.
  • Adaptability: Because they are smaller than mechanical springs, gas springs can be used in tooling that is small or with limited space. Multiple nitrogen springs can be connected with hoses to increase or vary the amount of force for different applications.
  • Strength: A typical nitrogen gas spring is four to five times stronger than a traditional coil spring. Therefore, fewer nitrogen springs are needed per tool when compared to coil springs.
  • Cost-efficiency: Wire springs wear and fatigue and must be replaced often. And this frequently requires additional costs for die maintenance when springs are replaced. The costs associated with replacement and maintenance add up over time and contribute to a higher total cost of ownership for mechanical springs. In contrast, gas springs are durable and can often be recharged and/or repaired to extend their useful life. What’s more, the consistent force of a gas spring reduces part variability, scrap, and time spent reworking parts.
All Ready Design-Tite nitrogen gas springs are compact and color coded for easy reference. We stock a complete line of pre-engineered designs in a range of length, diameter, and force options including:

Yes! We design all of our Design-Tite nitrogen gas springs with safety in mind, including overpressure check valves and a planned downward fall of the die in case of seal failure.

Our gas springs come with comprehensive, illustrated safety instructions to ensure safe operation. Guidelines are provided for correct positioning and alignment of springs on the tool, how to check pressure with gauges, pressurizing and discharging springs, as well as details for safe storage, operation, maintenance, and disposal procedures.
Ready Technology's Design-Tite nitrogen gas springs are in stock and available in a variety of types for different applications. Some models, such as the BE-Series, CE-Series, PE-Series, SE-Series, LE-Series, M-Series, and T-Series, are compatible with the optional Shield Scraper that cleans the stem with every stroke. All of Ready Technology's nitrogen springs meet VDI Safety protocols.

With our range of standard designs, we can help you choose the best gas spring option for improved longevity and performance over traditional mechanical springs. Contact us today to discuss your application!

Ready Technology | Rotary Benders

Rotary Blenders FAQ

Rotary bending is one of the most effective – and most popular – methods used for creating precision bends. But not all rotary benders are created equal.

The bending process can pose multiple challenges. The key to overcoming those challenges lies with selecting the right approach for the materials being used. In virtually every case, Ready Benders provide a superior result when compared to other conventional bending methods.

Ready Technology’s Ready Benders provide a variety of advantages compared to the alternatives. This page is designed to provide information regarding those advantages and answers to many of the most commonly asked questions we receive about our products.
Rotary benders, sometimes called rocker benders, feature a unique design consisting of a foundation block (or saddle) to which a spring-loaded rocker disk is attached. The rocker features a V-shaped notch that, once activated, both holds and bends the subject material to the desired configuration.

The bender is typically attached to an upper die shoe. This positioning allows the bender to move in a downward direction, connecting with the subject material and holding it in place. Downward pressure rotates the bender, pushing down on the material to create a bend. Once the motion is complete, the bender returns to its original positioning.

The benefits of rotary benders are significant, especially when compared to wipe bending. In fact, rotary benders can:

  • Improve the quality of your parts
  • Lower production costs
  • Produce greater consistency
  • Work better in the production environment


In fact, the advantages are almost too many to enumerate here. Contact one of our knowledgeable team members and let us tell you specifically how Ready Benders can help you improve your results.
Rotary benders are highly versatile. The most common types of bends you can achieve with Ready Benders include:

  • Square bends
  • Over-square bends
  • Channel bends
  • Z-bends
  • Hat bends
  • Gutted bends
  • Full hems

Ask us about your metal forming needs and we can help you devise the specific bending tools to help you achieve your goals.
Our Ready Benders are designed so that you can install them in your presses yourself. Our catalog and each Ready Bender we sell comes with detailed instructions and illustrations so you can be confident you’ve prepared the anvil and aligned and fastened the rocker correctly. Steps for adjusting overbend are also provided.

If you have questions or need assistance with set-up or troubleshooting our team is always ready to help.
Our comprehensive catalog provides detailed information for troubleshooting rotary benders, specifically for situations such as:

  • Underbending
  • Overbending
  • Hooking
  • Excessive marking
  • Saddle imprinting

Most problems are simple to resolve. In most cases, increasing back taper relief on the anvil or insert around which you are forming will solve the problem. Another tip is to ensure that the bender is located in the appropriate spot, not too near or too far away from the anvil.

We are always available to assist you with any questions or problems you might experience. If you can’t find the answer in the troubleshooting section of the catalog, simply contact us for help with your Ready Benders.
Rotary benders generally produce better results than what is possible with traditional wipe tooling. Because the rockers are highly polished they leave virtually none of the marks, scratches, or gouges that are common results of the upstroke with wipe tooling. Ready Benders also produce more consistent bend angles because they incorporate the precise amount of overbend to accommodate springback, resulting in the exact bend angle required. Other part features like hole placement and leg height are more consistent too.

Some of the available bender options include:

Dart Stiffeners Dart stiffeners allow you to add darts to your components by inserting a dowel in the rocker and relief grooves in the anvil. Darts provide additional support for critical bends, stiffening the material at the bend and reducing springback. This also helps eliminate galling and excessive maintenance, improves the appearance of your parts and eliminates the need for secondary operations.

Tooth Benders Tooth benders are used to reduce or eliminate interference between dies and parts. Our team can determine the saddle style and rocker required based on your specific part prints.

Hemmers A hemmer is a patented tool that transforms a slightly open bend into a completely flat bend with one vertical press stroke. This eliminates the need for pre-hemming and allows the operation to be completed in two steps rather than three.

Pad Benders Although Ready Benders are highly polished and leave significantly less marking than wipe tooling processes, you can add an independent pad for mark-free use on prepainted or decorative surfaces. Our test bending service is an excellent way to determine if a standard rocker meets acceptable tool marking criteria or if a pad is needed.
There are countless uses for rotary benders, and that’s why you will find them in use in a variety of industries and sectors.

Some of the most common applications are found in the automotive and aerospace industries. Rotary benders are also commonly used in the fabrication of household appliances, office furnishings, and HVAC components.

However, rotary benders can be used in virtually any metal forming or fabrication application. Contact us to see how Ready Benders can work for you.
This article has shown the various ways in which rotary benders provide advantages over the alternatives. But how do you know which rotary benders are the best for your needs?

Ready Benders are the most unique, off-the-shelf forming tool available today. Our industry-leading quality has set us apart from the rest, allowing us to provide practical, affordable solutions for customers around the world. We have countless stock rotary benders but, if you need a customized solution, we can help you there as well.

The easiest way to ensure you’re getting the right Ready Bender for your needs is to request a customized rotary bender quote. We will get right back to you with the ideal rotary bender solution for your needs.