FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Below is a list of our frequently asked questions. If you are unable to find an answer to your question, send us a question using our ask our experts form!
Is CIP looking for distribution partnerships?
Does CIP accept credit cards?
Yes, we can accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express.
Where does CIP purchase material?
CIP only buys materials sourced in the USA.
Where does CIP ship?
Yes, CIP ships raw tubes and sheets, and finished parts worldwide.
What kind of shaft material does CIP recommend using with CIP Composite materials?
CIP recommends running on a stainless shaft or counter surface, but there are a lot of suitable materials which are acceptable depending on the application. The important thing is that the surface has a good finish on it 16-32Ra (0.4-0.7µm), and that it is going to retain that surface quality. Stainless is ideal because it resists pitting and rust oxidation which can degrade the surface and increase the wear and friction on the bearing. We recommend selecting a material with at least a hardness of 80 HRB.
How much interference should I design into a bearing fit?
This can depend on the size of the bearing, application, and temperature range. However, a good rule of thumb is approximately 0.002″ per inch of shaft (or mm/mm of shaft). CIP is happy to provide fitment recommendations and bearing size calculations for your reference as well.
How much clearance should I design into a bearing fit?
This can depend on the size of the bearing, application, temperature range, and fit to the housing. However, a good rule of thumb is approximately 0.002″ per inch of shaft (or mm/mm of shaft). CIP is happy to provide fitment recommendations and bearing size calculations for your reference as well. It is important to remember that when installing a bearing with an interference fit, the ID of the bearing will shrink accordingly, and this must be compensated for by adding additional clearance to the “as machined” ID size.
Do CIP's materials swell when exposed to moisture or water?
No. CIP uses high quality resin and textile systems to provide materials which are very dimensionally stable. Water swell is less than 0.15% which will not impact the bearing design or performance even when operating fully submerged for its lifetime.
Does CIP recommend a wall thickness for bearing design?
A good general rule for wall thickness would be: Wall = 0.05*Shaft_Dia + 0.05″ for inch units. If using metric units: Wall = 0.05*Shaft_Dia + 1.3 mm.
How can CIP Composite bearings be installed?
Can I use grease with CIP's self-lubricating material?
How do I determine what material is right for my application?
How quickly can I expect to receive my order?
Raw material orders typically ship in 1 week or less, machined components are usually shipped within 3 weeks. CIP always attempts to schedule orders to provide the fastest possible lead time, and provides expedited processing options for those rush jobs which simply can’t wait.
What shipping carriers does CIP prefer?
For most orders we can and prefer to ship using UPS. For freight orders and export business we can work with an appropriate freight company or forwarder to find the best solution for you.
What is the minimum order quantity?
When purchasing raw material, CIP will sell individual tubes and sheets. For machined components they will be priced to use up the entire tube or sheet that is required for the components. For some components a minimum order amount of $100 may be applied.
Can I machine CIP Composites, or what special equipment do I need?
Yes you can machine CIP material just as you would aluminum material. No special equipment is required, we recommend cutting/turning the material dry without the use of coolant, and use a vacuum to keep the dust down. If you would like information on feeds/speeds or recommended tool angles our sales group would be happy to provide that information.
Are custom sizes available?
Yes. If you need a custom size that does not fit within our standard shape sizes we still may be able to help. Contact our sales department for more information.
Can the composite be dyed a color?
Yes, certain materials grades can be dyed. An up charge and a minimum order must be met. Each die lot will vary a little bit from one run to the next.
Can CIP materials be made into a rod?
No.
Can CIP material be painted?
Yes, CIP material can be painted.
Is CIP manufactured anywhere else besides Eugene, Oregon?
No. We are one group in one location, reaching globally.
Is CIP material a molded plastic?
No, CIP Composites are laminated polymer materials made by impregnating textiles with thermoset resins.
Is CIP material toxic?
No. CIP Composite material is non-toxic.
What is CIP Composites?
CIP Composite is a composite bearing material manufactured by Columbia Industrial Products.
How is CIP Composites made?
CIP Composites are laminated polymer materials made by impregnating textiles with thermoset resins. Solid lubricants are added to the resin to provide evenly dispersed lubrication throughout the material, inherently eliminating the need for external lubrication.
What type of products can CIP manufacture?
CIP manufactures tubes and sheets that can be machined into bearings, bushings, wear pads, thrust washers, wear rings and thermal & electrical isolators. Custom parts can also be designed using our materials.
Do I need to use grease with CIP Composites?
No. Solid lubricants are dispersed evenly throughout the material, eliminating the need for external lubrication.
Can I buy CIP material and do the machining myself?
Yes. Tubes and sheets can be easily machined onsite using conventional tooling and methods.
