Abstract: A bearing system includes: a rotatable shaft, a circumferential channel in the shaft with an axially extending profile surface at least part of which is inclined relative to the shaft axis; a bearing, around the shaft in use; a split ring in the circumferential channel in contact with the inclined profile surface, the split ring includes a first part having an outer diameter, and a second part having a greater outer diameter than the first part to provide a thrust surface; a collar, including an internal bore to accommodate the first part of the split ring in use; and a bearing locator for exerting an axial locating force between the split ring and the bearing to locate the bearing on the shaft. An axial thrust load exerted on the split ring by the shaft is transmitted to the collar by the thrust surface, and the split ring is urged along the inclined profile surface so as to produce a radial load on the split ring which is resisted by the collar.

Abstract: A bearing system includes: a rotatable shaft, a circumferential channel in the shaft with an axially extending profile surface at least part of which is inclined relative to the shaft axis; a bearing, around the shaft in use; a split ring in the circumferential channel in contact with the inclined profile surface, the split ring includes a first part having an outer diameter, and a second part having a greater outer diameter than the first part to provide a thrust surface; a collar, including an internal bore to accommodate the first part of the split ring in use; and a bearing locator for exerting an axial locating force between the split ring and the bearing to locate the bearing on the shaft. An axial thrust load exerted on the split ring by the shaft is transmitted to the collar by the thrust surface, and the split ring is urged along the inclined profile surface so as to produce a radial load on the split ring which is resisted by the collar.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the flow of material, such as molten metal, from a container is disclosed. The apparatus includes a first closing element for the outlet from the container, a support system for the first element, an actuator system for moving the support system and first element, a fixed support frame for mounting the support system and first element, and a bearing system between the fixed support frame and the support system to facilitate movement of the support system relative to the fixed support frame. The bearing system comprises one or more contact surfaces between a component of the support framework and a component of the support system, at least one of the components providing a contacting surface capable of rotation.