Vesconite Bearings, a global leader in high-performance bearing and wear materials, is set to introduce an improved version of its escalator handrail drive friction wheel, which plays a crucial role in transmitting power to the operating system of the escalator handrail and provides essential support and guidance, maintaining the correct track of the handrail during operation.
The adoption of Vesconite in this application has already demonstrated significant benefits, including quieter operation and reduced maintenance requirements, which Vesconite Bearings’ client has highly valued.
However, following feedback from the escalator repair and maintenance company that installed the friction wheel, Vesconite Bearings will be refining the design to feature a rougher finish on the wheel’s surface.
“With the initial success of our Vesconite material in this application, we saw an opportunity to further optimise performance,” says Yolanda Haasbroek of Vesconite Bearings.
“By introducing a rougher surface finish, we expect to improve traction, ensuring better engagement between the friction wheel and the handrail. This adjustment will contribute to longer-lasting performance and enhanced efficiency in escalator systems.”
Vesconite Bearings’ materials are widely recognised for their self-lubricating properties, low friction, and wear resistance, making them ideal for demanding applications such as escalator components.
Vesconite Bearings continues to actively work with the escalator repair and maintenance company. Vesconite Bearings anticipates that this enhanced design will improve the escalator handrail friction wheel performance beyond the already good performance of the original design.
