Several years ago, Vesconite Hilube load-bearing blocks were tested on a Spudnik potato brush washer in Wisconsin, USA, and proved to outlast comparative acetal polymer components. Vesconite Bearings, the manufacturer of the wear material and customised blocks, thereby demonstrated the superior durability and performance of its Vesconite Hilube wear material in a demanding agricultural application.
The blocks play a crucial role in securing and supporting brush rollers to the frame of the potato washer while allowing them to rotate. A stainless steel shaft with rotating brushes is anchored by and rotates in each block, and the brushes agitate and scrub the potatoes to remove dirt, soil, and other impurities. Additionally, sprayers positioned above the brushes apply water and disinfectant, ensuring a thorough cleaning process.
Before the introduction of Vesconite Hilube, acetal blocks were used in this application. These blocks required daily lubrication—sometimes even twice a day—to prevent excessive wear. Without frequent greasing, the acetal blocks would become oblong within a few days, severely impacting performance and requiring downtime for maintenance.
By contrast, the Vesconite Hilube blocks operated for an impressive eight months without the need for any lubrication. Video footage comparing the two materials shows a significant accumulation of grease around the shaft in acetal blocks, whereas Vesconite Hilube remained clean and demonstrated minimal wear even after months of continuous operation.
Despite the challenging potato-washing environment—characterised by significant dirt, chemicals, moisture, and abrasive particles—Vesconite Hilube blocks exhibited exceptional durability. When eventually removed, they showed only minor wear, suggesting that they could have continued to function effectively for an even longer period.
Vesconite Bearings application engineer Juan van Wyk notes that the harsh conditions did affect the stainless steel shafts used in the system: “The shafts were rough worn, and coupled with the dirt, they started gripping inside the block. I believe that if the potato producer were to add a little grease every month, these blocks would be able to go the extra mile. Even allowing water to be sprayed onto the running surface would facilitate dirt removal, especially since water is also an excellent lubricant for Vesconite.”
Vesconite Hilube’s self-lubricating properties and resistance to wear in wet and abrasive conditions make it a good choice for agricultural machinery and food processing applications.
Above: Vesconite Hilube load-bearing blocks were tested on a Spudnik potato brush washer in Wisconsin, USA.
Above: The no-grease Vesconite Hilube block (left) compared with the greased acetal.
