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Vaca Muerta: bearings, couplings and transmission for pumping, fracturing and compression equipment

In the unconventional fields of Vaca Muerta, pumping, fracturing and compression equipment demand transmission components that withstand extreme loads and aggressive environments. We tell you which bearings, couplings and chains are used and how to quote them.

Technical team at MR Accesorios Industriales · Updated on September 28, 2026

Illustration of a pumping unit with its bearing housings highlighted

Bearings for pumping equipment in Vaca Muerta

Pumping equipment in unconventional fields like Vaca Muerta operates with combined radial and axial loads, vibrations and contamination from formation fluids. For these conditions, spherical roller bearings are a frequent choice because they tolerate misalignment and support high load capacities.

In centrifugal and progressive cavity pumps, spherical roller bearings with E design (such as those identified with standard suffixes) offer higher load capacity and lower friction. SNL split housings complement the assembly, facilitating installation and maintenance in the field.

For pumping applications with combined loads, tapered roller bearings are also an option, although in Vaca Muerta spherical roller bearings are prioritized for their self-aligning capability. We distribute bearings from recognized brands such as SKF, FAG and LINK-BELT, and we quote according to the size or code you need.

Chain transmission in fracturing equipment

Hydraulic fracturing (fracking) equipment uses roller chain transmissions to drive high-pressure pumps and other components. These chains must withstand pulsating loads and operate in dusty and humid environments.

Roller chains of standard pitch, such as ANSI series (for example, 60 or 40), are used in power transmissions. For higher demands, long-pitch or multiple-strand chains, such as 2 or 3 strand, are used, which distribute the load better.

We work with chains from brands such as SKF, TSUBAKI and EMMAR. If you need a specific chain, you can indicate the code or the pitch and number of strands; we quote the appropriate option for your fracturing equipment.

Couplings for compressors and pumps

Compressors and pumps in compression plants and pumping stations require couplings that transmit torque efficiently and absorb misalignments. Elastomeric and gear couplings are common in these applications.

In Vaca Muerta, couplings must withstand high temperatures and contamination. Flexible couplings with an elastomeric element help reduce vibrations and extend the service life of associated bearings and seals.

We distribute a wide variety of couplings for different powers and speeds. If you provide the distance between shafts, shaft diameters and required torque, we indicate the alternative that best suits your compressor or pump.

Hydraulic seals and lubrication for aggressive environments

The hydraulic systems of fracturing and pumping equipment depend on hydraulic seals that prevent leaks and withstand high pressures and temperatures. Polyurethane and PTFE seals are common in cylinders and valves.

Lubrication is critical in these environments: greases and lubricants specially designed for high load and water resistance help extend the service life of bearings and chains. In Vaca Muerta, it is recommended to use greases with extreme pressure additives and good adhesion.

We work with hydraulic seals and lubricants from recognized brands. If you indicate the seal dimensions or operating conditions, we quote the appropriate product for your application.

SNL split housings for field mounting

SNL split housings are a practical solution for mounting bearings in pumping and compression equipment, as they allow bearing replacement without dismounting the shaft. In fields like Vaca Muerta, this reduces downtime.

These housings are made of gray or nodular cast iron and accept spherical roller bearings with adapter sleeves. They are used in pumps, fans and conveyors, among other equipment.

We distribute SNL housings in various sizes, such as those identified with standard codes (for example, SNL 211 or SNL 216). If you indicate the shaft diameter or the bearing you will use, we quote the corresponding housing.

Spherical roller bearings: the choice for heavy loads

In pumping and compression equipment in Vaca Muerta, spherical roller bearings are widely used for their ability to withstand high radial loads and angular misalignments. Their design with two rows of spherical rollers and a spherical raceway in the outer ring makes them robust.

Within this category, bearings with E suffix (such as those in the 223 series) have higher load capacity and lower operating temperature. There are also versions with brass cage (MB suffix) for high-demand applications.

We work with spherical roller bearings from brands such as SKF, FAG and LINK-BELT. If you have the bearing code or dimensions (inner diameter, outer diameter and width), we quote the exact option for your equipment.

How to quote components for Vaca Muerta

To quote bearings, chains, couplings, seals or housings for equipment in Vaca Muerta, you can write to us via WhatsApp or email with the product code, dimensions or a photo of the part. With that data, we indicate the available alternative and send you the quote promptly.

We are from Buenos Aires, Argentina, and we work with the leading brands in the market. Our technical-commercial team advises you on selecting the right component for each application, considering operating conditions and the environment.

Do not hesitate to consult us for any power transmission or bearing need for the oil industry. We are here to help you keep your equipment running.

Frequently asked questions

What bearings are used in pumps for Vaca Muerta?

In pumps for Vaca Muerta, spherical roller bearings are often used for their load capacity and self-aligning capability. Tapered roller bearings are also used in some cases. Brands such as SKF, FAG and LINK-BELT offer suitable options.

What roller chains are used in fracturing equipment?

In fracturing equipment, ANSI standard pitch roller chains are used, such as series 60 or 40, and also multiple-strand chains for higher loads. Brands such as SKF, TSUBAKI and EMMAR are common.

How are bearings mounted in pumping equipment?

Bearings in pumping equipment are often mounted in SNL split housings, which allow replacement without dismounting the shaft. These housings are fixed with adapter sleeves and are practical for field maintenance.

What hydraulic seals are used in fracturing equipment?

In fracturing equipment, hydraulic seals made of polyurethane or PTFE are used, which withstand high pressures and temperatures. Seals from brands such as SKF are suitable for cylinders and valves in these aggressive environments.

How to quote bearings for Vaca Muerta?

You can quote bearings for Vaca Muerta by writing to us via WhatsApp or email with the bearing code, dimensions or a photo of the part. We respond promptly with the quote and the available alternative.

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