Duramax Marine

Duramax Marine

Founded in 1895 in Middlefield, Ohio, Duramax Marine has a rich legacy in the boat and

marine supply industry. What started as a small American business over 125 years ago

has evolved into a respected, 100% employee-owned company recognized around the

world. Today, Duramax Marine is celebrated not only for its deep roots and tradition, but

also for driving innovation in marine engineering and setting new standards for vessel

safety.

A Journey Through Time

Duramax Marine’s story begins in an era of big change for boat-building. In the 1920s,

as shipbuilders started experimenting with new materials and techniques, Duramax

quickly stepped into the spotlight by producing water-lubricated bearings, an essential

part that helps propeller shafts run smoothly, even in some of the most challenging

marine conditions.

Through the rest of the 20th century, Duramax wasn’t content to rest on its

achievements. The company invested heavily in research, engineering, and strategic

acquisitions. One of its defining moments came in 1996, when it acquired the bearing

division of BF Goodrich, a major player in the industry. This move brought the renowned

Johnson Cutless water-lubricated bearing line under their wing and expanded the

company’s technical depth even further.

Fast forward to 2012, and Duramax became entirely employee-owned. This deepened

its focus on customer care and innovation. Today, with a team of proud American

makers and a global reach, Duramax Marine’s products can be found on commercial,

military, and recreational vessels all over the world, a testament to the company’s spirit

of progress and dedication to excellence.

The Products

Duramax Marine’s products blend tradition with practical marine solutions. Here’s an

overview of their products:

Water-Lubricated Bearings: Known for Johnson Cutless bearings, trusted for durability

and performance in tough water conditions from Navy submarines to tugboats.

Advanced Bearing Systems: Includes modern polymer and stave bearing systems like

the ROMOR I, initially designed for the U.S. Navy and now widely used.

Heat Exchange Systems: Custom cooling solutions such as DuraCooler Keel Coolers,

Spiral Tube Keel Coolers, and Box Coolers for diesel engines and equipment.

Shaft Sealing Solutions: Reliable, easy-to-maintain products like the DryMax Shaft Seal

and Ultra-X Packing, reducing downtime and costs.

Impact Protection: Heavy-duty dock bumpers, fenders, and tow knees to protect vessels

and docks, expanded recently by acquiring Morse Rubber’s marine fender business.

Industrial Applications: Marine bearing technology adapted for industrial fluid handling

and pump systems, showing Duramax’s versatility.

Present Day

Today, Duramax Marine isn’t just selling parts, they’re a trusted partner to naval

engineers, port authorities, and shipbuilders everywhere. They’re always pushing to

make marine technology better and smarter, making sure fleets keep running safely and

without a hitch. For more than a hundred years, Duramax has earned a reputation for

being innovative, dependable, and truly dedicated to doing things right, helping boats

and ships of all kinds keep moving forward at full speed.

Deep Blue Yacht Supply is one of the top suppliers of Duramax Johnson marine bearings across the Globe.