About Lignum Vitae

Lignum Vitae Solutions: A Legacy of Reliability

The Original Water-Lubricated Bearing Solution – Reinvented for the Modern World

Our warehouse stores a full inventory of Lignum Vitae wood.

Lignum Vitae: A Time-Tested Solution.

Lignum Vitae North America (LVNA) isn’t just a bearing supplier; we’re stewards of a legacy.

Since Thomas Edison specified its use for the first hydroelectric power plant in 1882, Lignum Vitae – latin for the “tree wood of life” – has been the trusted choice for water-lubricated bearings in the most demanding applications, from the earliest hydroelectric turbines to critical components in naval vessels.

For decades, Lignum Vitae was the gold standard. But the rise of synthetic materials, coupled with misconceptions about its availability, led many industries to explore alternatives. Now, as the limitations of those alternatives become clear – frequent failures, environmental concerns such as PFAs, and rising costs – Lignum Vitae is making a powerful comeback.

LVNA is leading the way back to this proven technology, combining the unmatched natural properties of Lignum Vitae with modern engineering expertise. We’re not just reviving a historical material; we’re re-engineering it for the 21st century, providing sustainable, high-performance bearing solutions for a new generation of challenges.

Our Commitment: Sustainability, Reliability, and Innovation

Sustainability

We’re committed to providing environmentally responsible bearing solutions. Lignum Vitae is a 100% natural, renewable resource, and our water-lubricated bearings eliminate the risk of oil pollution.

Reliability

We are in the “just in time” business and understand the critical importance of uptime in your operations. Our bearings are engineered for exceptional durability and long-term performance, minimizing maintenance and maximizing efficiency.

Innovation

We combine the proven performance of Lignum Vitae with cutting-edge engineering and design. We’re constantly seeking new ways to improve our solutions and meet the evolving needs of our customers.

Partnership

We’re more than just a supplier; we’re your partner in success. We work closely with our customers to understand their unique challenges and provide tailored solutions.

The Unmatched Properties of Lignum Vitae

Lignum Vitae is unlike any other bearing material. Its unique combination of natural properties makes it ideally suited for demanding applications:

  • Naturally Self-Lubricating: The wood’s inherent resins provide continuous lubrication, reducing friction and wear.
  • Exceptional Durability: Outlasts synthetic materials by a significant margin, minimizing replacements.
  • High Load Capacity: Withstands extreme pressures and vibrations.
  • Steel-Friendly: Will not score or damage shafts, unlike some composites.
  • Environmentally Superior: 100% oil-free, biodegradable, and NSF/ANSI 61 certified. The only natural industrial bearing available.
  • Proven Track Record: Over a century of successful use in hydro, marine, and industrial applications.
Bearings made from lignum vitae.
A newly planted Lignum Vitae tree sprouting in our grove.

Responsibly Sourced, Sustainably Harvested

We are deeply committed to the responsible sourcing and sustainable harvesting of Lignum Vitae. Genuine Lignum Vitae is a precious resource, and we work diligently to ensure its availability for generations to come.

Lignum Vitae North America LLC holds all necessary licenses and permits to comply with CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) regulations, and we work closely with conservation authorities to ensure that our harvesting practices are sustainable and environmentally sound.

Partner with Lignum Vitae Solutions

Discover how our expertise and the unmatched performance of Lignum Vitae can benefit your operations. Contact us today to discuss your specific needs.

Wood Grain texture taken from a Lignum Vitae tree