Problem
This particularly wide precision seed sowing machine is used in the agricultural industry in large markets such as the USA, South America and Eastern Europe.
The Italian manufacturer of agricultural machinery, Maschia Gaspardo, sometimes builds such attachments and was looking for a suitable bearing solution for the suspension of the large wheels on the sides of the trailer. The wheels can be swivelled freely and enable easy manoeuvring at the end of the field. High pressure is exerted on the bearing point of the wheels, as they have to bear the weight of the machine. Various systems were proposed and considered for the bearing assembly: However, a thrust bearing is too expensive, is difficult to protect against the high levels of dust and requires time-consuming adjustment of the housing. A steel washer with lubricant was also out of the question as an alternative. Although this is a cost-effective solution, the washers would have to be replaced annually and relubricated daily.