Meridian ML6 Coated Idler Bushings and Rollers Review: Specs, Price and Applications

Meridian ML6 polyurethane coated idler bushings and rollers use oil-impregnated bronze (SAE 841) or composite cores that spin freely on fixed shafts, with ML6 bonded directly to resist delamination.
Runout is as low as 0.0015 in, parts are molded to final dimensions, and they suit packaging, printing, labeling and conveyors where powered motion is not required.
Quick Verdict
Simple, maintenance-free idlers that protect products and run quietly.
Meridian ML6 Coated Idler Bushings and Rollers at a Glance
Specification | Details |
Product type | Coated idler bushings and rollers |
Core | SAE 841 bronze or composite |
Coating | ML6 bonded |
Runout | TIR as low as 0.0015 in |
Speed | Low to moderate |
Sizes | SAE and metric |
Price | Request a quote |
Design and Operating Principle
ML6 is Meridian Laboratory's proprietary polyurethane compound, valued for abrasion resistance, tear strength, flexibility, chemical resistance and bond strength. Parts are precision molded to final dimensions in-house, usually without grinding or post-machining, and Meridian's mold library often avoids extra tooling charges.
Bonding the polyurethane directly to the core, rather than gluing a sleeve on, resists delamination and tear-off under high load and high cycle counts. Precision molding achieves total indicated runout as low as 0.0015 in, which keeps contact pressure even as the part rotates.
Integration and Selection
Choose bore and diameter for the shaft and durometer for contact. Use for unpowered guiding and support.
Avoid high speeds beyond bushing limits.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
Packaging | Idler rollers |
Printing | Guide rollers |
Labeling | Web support |
Conveyors | Unpowered rollers |
Functional Uses
Idling
Guiding
Surface protection
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Maintenance free
Low runout
Shock absorbing
Limitations
Low to moderate speed only
Who Should Consider the Meridian ML6 Coated Idler Bushings and Rollers?
Idler rollers suit unpowered guiding.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. Meridian Laboratory prices the ML6 Idler Rollers by size, durometer, core and quantity, from single prototypes to high-volume production, with short lead times.
Further Reading
Meridian ML6 Coated Idler Bushings and Rollers FAQ
What core materials are used?
Oil-impregnated SAE 841 bronze or composite.
Are they powered?
No, they are idlers for unpowered motion.
Who makes ML6 products?
Meridian Laboratory.
How much does it cost?
Request a quote from Meridian Laboratory.





