Case Study: QCW Car Wash Bearings
Proven Performance in the harshest environments
Car washes present one of the most punishing environments for mounted bearings. Constant exposure to high-pressure water, cleaning chemicals, grit, and rapid stop-start cycles often leads to frequent bearing failures. Traditional car wash bearings typically last only about three months before requiring replacement. On top of that, they demand routine re-greasing, adding downtime and maintenance costs.
Challenge
In a test-site car wash application, operators needed a solution that would reduce maintenance and extend bearing life. The key requirements included:
- Reducing the high maintenance burden
- Extending the service life of bearings
- Improving bearing reliability
- Eliminating the need for re-greasing
- Withstanding the extreme environment of continuous wash cycles
Solution
Solve Industrial Motion Group introduced the QCW Car Wash Bearing, originally developed under the IPTCI brand, for field testing. In September 2024, these bearings were installed at a high-volume car wash test site.
Results
- Since installation, the QCW Car Wash Bearings have washed over 250,000 vehicles, and they’re still running.
- Zero Maintenance: No re-greasing or service has been required. Improving bearing reliability
- Extended Life: Far surpasses the industry norm of just three months.
- Proven Reliability: Maintained continuous uptime in one of the harshest wash-down environments.
Conclusion
The QCW Car Wash Bearing from Solve is redefining performance standards in car wash operations. Where conventional bearings fail quickly and demand constant upkeep, the QCW delivers exceptional longevity and true maintenance-free operation. For operators, this translates to less downtime, lower costs, and peace of mind that their equipment will keep running smoothly.
Key Takeway
- Over 250,000 car washes completed with QCW Bearings still in operation
- Zero maintenance required throughout performance
- Standard car wash bearings typically last only three months
- QCW delivers unmatched durability and reliability compared to alternatives
