Choosing between filament-wound bearings and PTFE composite bearings is not simply a choice between two material names. MG-CR and MG-1 represent two different starting points for bearing selection—different constructions lead to different structural and tribological behavior, which in turn leads to different evaluation paths.

Both bearing types belong to the broader family of self-lubricating or low-lubrication bearings. However, they use different material systems and sliding mechanisms. This guide compares the two construction routes—fiber-reinforced composite (MG-CR) and metal-backed PTFE composite (MG-1)—and explains how OEM buyers should evaluate each. For a broader overview of bearing families, see our Composite Bearing Selection Guide for OEM Buyers.

Terminology note: In this article, “filament-wound bearing” refers specifically to the MG-CR fiber-reinforced composite construction, while “PTFE composite bearing” refers specifically to the MG-1 metal-backed PTFE composite construction. These are representative product constructions used for comparison rather than definitions of all filament-wound or PTFE composite bearings.

1. What Are Filament-Wound and PTFE Composite Bearings?

Filament-Wound Bearings (MG-CR)

MG-CR bearings use a fiber-reinforced resin structure with a PTFE and special-fiber bearing lining. The fiber-reinforced composite structure provides structural support, while the bearing lining is designed to support low-friction dry operation. For a detailed product overview, see MG-CR Filament-Wound Bearings.

PTFE Composite Bearings (MG-1)

MG-1 bearings use a layered construction: a PTFE compound sliding layer, a porous bronze interlayer, a low-carbon steel backing, and a plating layer. This construction combines a PTFE-based sliding layer with metal backing for low-friction sliding and structural support. For a detailed selection framework, see our PTFE Composite Bearing Selection Guide.

Core difference: MG-CR is a fiber-reinforced composite construction with a non-metallic structure. MG-1 is a metal-backed composite construction that combines structural support with a PTFE sliding layer.

2. What Should OEM Buyers Compare?

Rather than listing material names, the table below focuses on the comparison dimensions that matter for bearing selection. Final selection depends on the complete operating conditions and validated product data.

MG-1 product data example: MG-1 product data specifies a static load rating of 250 N/mm², dry-running PV limits of 1.8 N/mm²·m/s continuous and 3.6 N/mm²·m/s short-term, and a coefficient of friction of 0.02–0.20. The applicable temperature range should be confirmed against the current MG-1 product specification and operating conditions. These values are specific to MG-1 and should not be generalized to all PTFE composite bearings.

For a detailed discussion of dry-running and lubricated bearing behavior, see our Dry-Running Bearings vs Lubricated Bearings guide.

3. Bearing Selection Workflow

A practical selection process should follow a structured workflow—not simply compare material names. The sequence below helps OEM buyers move from application requirements to construction selection.

Step 1: Load
Identify the load magnitude, direction, and type (static, dynamic, shock). This determines the required structural support.

Step 2: PV (Pressure × Velocity)
Evaluate the sliding speed and contact pressure. Allowable PV depends on the material system, motion type, temperature, and lubrication. MG-1 has product-specific PV limits; MG-CR values depend on the fiber/resin system and should be confirmed from the product specification.

Step 3: Environment
Assess exposure to water, chemicals, dust, and contamination. MG-CR’s non-metallic construction may be advantageous in some corrosive environments; MG-1 may require an appropriate backing material. Chemical compatibility must be verified for the specific medium.

Step 4: Shaft and Housing
Check shaft material, hardness, surface finish, and alignment. Installation accuracy—including housing deformation and clearance—can significantly affect bearing performance and service life.

Step 5: Construction Selection
Based on Steps 1–4, determine which construction route to evaluate first. If weight reduction or non-metallic construction is important, evaluate MG-CR first. If metal-backed structural support or compatibility with both dry and lubricated operation is required, evaluate MG-1 first.

Step 6: Validation
Confirm the selected construction against application-specific data. This includes load/PV verification, temperature limits, shaft compatibility, and any required testing. Production volume, dimensional consistency, traceability, and supplier capability should also be confirmed.

4. Which Construction Should You Evaluate First?

The table below is a starting point, not a one-to-one rule. Final selection depends on the complete operating conditions and validated product data.

5. Application Examples: What Should Buyers Check?

The following examples show how the selection workflow applies to common industry contexts.

Marine / Offshore
Seawater exposure, chemical compatibility, load, and motion are key concerns. Material compatibility and dimensional behavior should be evaluated for both constructions.

Hydraulic Cylinders
Reciprocating motion, shaft condition, alignment, and installation clearance are critical. Friction, wear behavior, and shaft surface finish should be evaluated for both MG-CR and MG-1.

Heavy Machinery
High load, motion type, and contamination exposure are the primary factors. Load/PV data and environmental compatibility should be compared against application requirements.

Lifting Equipment
Load capacity, weight, and contamination exposure matter. Structural design and corrosion resistance should be evaluated.

Agricultural Machinery
Moisture and contamination are common concerns. Material compatibility and sealing requirements should be reviewed.

The final shortlist should be based on application-specific data and validation. For a deeper look at how manufacturing, customization, and quality control are managed, see our OEM Composite Bearings: Customization, Materials, Manufacturing & Quality Control guide.

6. What OEM Buyers Should Confirm Before Ordering

Before approving a bearing selection for production, OEM buyers should confirm the following:

Before RFQ

• Drawing and dimensions

• Operating conditions (load, speed, motion, temperature)

• Shaft specification (material, hardness, surface finish)

• Material requirements and lubrication condition

• Current bearing specification, replacement reason, or observed failure issue, if applicable

• Required quantity or estimated annual demand

During Sample Approval

• Dimensional inspection record

• Material certificate

• Agreed test requirements and validation results

Before Mass Production

• Batch consistency and inspection records

• Traceability method

• Change control procedure

What evidence should suppliers provide?

• Material specification

• Dimensional inspection

• Batch traceability

• Test/validation data

• Drawing confirmation

• Change-control information

For buyers sourcing from China, supplier verification is an additional critical step—see our Importing Composite Bearings from China: What Industrial Buyers Should Verify guide.

7. FAQ: Filament-Wound vs PTFE Composite Bearings

Do filament-wound bearings need a metal backing?
No. MG-CR uses a fiber-reinforced resin construction without a metal backing. Its applicable load capacity and dimensional behavior depend on the fiber/resin system, geometry, and operating conditions.

Can both filament-wound and PTFE composite bearings run dry?
Both MG-CR and MG-1 can be used for dry-running applications, but their material systems and applicable limits differ. Actual suitability should be checked against load, speed, PV, temperature, and shaft conditions.

Which bearing construction should be evaluated for corrosive environments?
MG-CR’s non-metallic fiber/resin construction may be advantageous in corrosive environments. MG-1 may be considered with an appropriate backing material. The decision depends on the specific chemical, temperature, and moisture exposure.

Are filament-wound bearings better than PTFE composite bearings?
Neither construction is universally suitable for every application. The appropriate choice depends on load, motion, lubrication, temperature, chemical exposure, shaft conditions, weight, and other application requirements.

What information should I provide when requesting a bearing quotation?
Drawing, load, speed, motion, lubrication, shaft specification, operating temperature, and annual demand.

8. Send Your Bearing Requirements

If you are comparing MG-CR and MG-1 for an OEM application, send us the available application data for a technical review.

Please include:

• Bearing drawing or dimensions

• Load and speed

• Rotary, oscillating, or other motion

• Operating temperature

• Dry or lubricated operation

• Shaft material, hardness, and surface finish

• Water, chemical, or contamination exposure

• Current bearing specification or failure issue, if applicable

• Estimated annual demand or order quantity

If some parameters are not yet available, send the existing bearing drawing, bearing number, application description, or replacement specification for an initial review. Our team can review the application requirements and discuss the appropriate bearing construction, material, and validation requirements before quotation or sampling.

Related Product Pages:

• MG-CR Filament-Wound Bearings

• MG-1 / Metal-Polymer Composite Bearings