Plastic Guides
Plastic guides such as wear strips, guide rails, chain guides and slide profiles reduce friction and wear on moving parts and products. Made from UHMWPE, nylon, acetal and PTFE-based materials, they run quietly without lubrication.
What it is
Guides are machined from sheet or rod, or extruded to profile, then drilled or slotted for fixing. They protect chains, belts and products from metal contact, lowering noise and wear.
Low-friction materials let products slide smoothly along conveyor lines and machine slides.
Typical applications
- Conveyor chain and belt guides
- Product guide rails
- Machine slide ways and gibs
- Wear strips on hoppers and chutes
- Door and drawer runners
Materials & grades
- UHMWPE (PE1000)
- Nylon (oil-filled)
- Acetal (POM)
- Filled PTFE
Points to consider
- Slot fixing holes to allow thermal expansion on long guides.
- Countersink fasteners below the wear surface.
- UHMWPE gives the best wear resistance at low temperature; nylon at higher loads.
- Food-grade materials are available.
Frequently asked questions
What material is best for chain guides?
UHMWPE is the most common, thanks to excellent wear resistance and low friction.
Do plastic guides need lubrication?
No. Plastic guides are designed for dry running, which keeps them clean and suits food and packaging lines.
How should long plastic guides be fixed?
With slotted holes and countersunk fasteners, allowing for thermal expansion.