Lithium: how to choose bearings, housings and seals for saline, dusty and high-altitude environments

Lithium extraction in Argentina is concentrated in high-altitude salt flats, where equipment faces an aggressive combination: corrosive brine, abrasive dust and low atmospheric pressure. Conveyor belts and pumps work continuously, and any failure in a bearing or housing can halt production.

Brine attacks standard steels and degrades seals, while fine dust enters the raceways. Therefore, component selection must prioritize protection against contaminants and corrosion resistance.

In this context, spherical roller bearings and split housings with efficient seals are the basis for reliable maintenance. Choosing the right product from the start reduces field interventions and extends equipment life.

Spherical roller bearings are ideal for conveyor belts and pumps in lithium mining because they support combined radial and axial loads, and tolerate shaft misalignments. In structures working outdoors, with thermal variations and settlements, this capacity prevents overloads on the bearings.

For saline environments, we recommend versions with reinforced seals and adequate lubrication. For example, spherical roller bearings of the 223 series, such as 22325 or 22318, offer high load capacity and are suitable for demanding mining applications.

At MR we work with spherical roller bearings from recognized brands such as SKF, FAG and LINK-BELT. If you need a specific reference, we quote the exact code for your application.

Split housings, also called pillow block bearings, are the classic solution for conveyor belt and pump shafts. Their split design allows inspecting and replacing the bearing without disassembling the shaft, which reduces downtime.

In saline environments, it is key to choose housings with good sealing and corrosion-resistant material. SKF's SAF and SNL models, such as SAF 322 or SNL 211, are widely used in the mining industry.

In addition, covers and accessories for housings, such as TS 34 or TS 52 seals, help maintain lubrication and prevent the ingress of brine and dust. A correct selection of these components prolongs bearing life.

Sealing is critical in lithium mining. A deficient seal allows brine and dust to reach the bearing, causing corrosion and premature wear. Therefore, we recommend using contact or labyrinth seals, depending on speed and contamination level.

In split housings, covers and accessories such as those from TIMKEN (for example, LO519 or VR317) offer sealing options for severe conditions. These components are easy to replace during preventive maintenance.

At MR we advise you to choose the right seal according to your application: type of contaminant, shaft speed and working temperature. With the code or a photo of the part, we indicate the compatible alternative.

Conveyor belts in lithium plants also depend on roller chains and pulleys to move the ore. Salinity and dust require chains with anti-corrosion treatment and pulleys with resistant bushings.

Roller chains must be lubricated with products suitable for humid and corrosive environments. At MR we sell roller chains of different pitches and strengths, suitable for conveyors and elevators.

Pulleys, for their part, must have a design that minimizes material accumulation and facilitates cleaning. We work with cast iron and steel pulleys, in various diameters and rim widths.

Couplings connect motors to pumps and reducers, and in saline environments they must resist corrosion and absorb misalignments. A rigid coupling can transmit vibrations and damage bearings.

We recommend flexible couplings, such as elastomer or gear couplings, which tolerate misalignments and reduce load on the shafts. At MR we quote couplings of different brands and sizes, according to the torque and speed of your equipment.

A correct selection of the coupling, together with the appropriate bearings and housings, ensures reliable operation of conveyor belts and pumps in lithium extraction.

Preventive maintenance is essential in lithium mining. Corrosive brine requires periodic inspections of seals and lubrication, and timely replacement of worn components.

Using greases with anti-corrosion additives and washing equipment with fresh water when possible helps reduce chemical attack. It is also important to verify the adjustment of housings and shaft alignment.

At MR we help you build a replacement plan for bearings, housings and seals, with products from reliable brands. If you have doubts about which reference to use, write to us via WhatsApp or email with the code or a photo of the part.