Industry news

The Timken Company is providing slewing drives for the second-largest photovoltaic (PV) solar tracking system project in Australia. Solar tracker manufacturer ATEC chose Timken's Cone Drive solution to help it overcome challenging wind conditions in the mountainous region of New South Wales, where the 280 MW Wollar Solar Farm is being constructed. "We collaborate closely with ATEC and other solar companies to provide innovative solutions in response to a wide range of challenges, including weather and terrain," said Carl Rapp, group vice president of drive systems and services. "By working together with customers and providing our engineering expertise, we can enhance the performance and reliability of solar tracking systems, creating a more efficient and resilient world in the process." Timken has partnered with ATEC on several solar projects, including developments in Zambia and China. For the Wollar Solar Farm, Timken is delivering an innovative octagonal rotating shaft solution for solar panels designed to withstand the windy conditions that are typical in the mountainous region. The solar farm's developers expect to complete the project and connect it to Australia's national power transmission grid in 2024. Renewable energy is Timken's single-largest end-market sector, representing approximately 10 percent of total company sales in 2022. The company is committed to advancing environmental sustainability through product innovation, operational excellence and technology. Timken has invested heavily in research and development in support of solar and wind energy and has built strong manufacturing, engineering and testing capabilities across its global footprint. Timken and Cone Drive have played a role in significant utility-scale solar tracking system projects, including Al Dhafra PV2, the world's largest single-site solar power plant; South Africa's Redstone Solar Thermal Power project; Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai; and PowerChina's Jiangxi Electric project. (https://www.powertransmission.com) More About XZBRG: Xinzhou Bearing Industrial Inc. is one of the Custom Bearing Manufacturer and world wide Distributors of all types of Bearings,specializing in Ball, Needle, and Roller types (Inch and Metric Sizes) made from Ceramic (Si3N4/ZrO2), Stainless (440c/316) or Chrome Steel(SAE52100 steel); Tolerance ABEC1, 3, 5, 7.level. We work directly with our OEMs and Bearing Distributors. Our engineers can help you with bearing, shaft and housing tolerances as well as semiconductor applications, cryogenic applications, extreme hostile environments, and extreme  temperatures environments. We also stock other manufacturer’s bearings. We distribute bearings for extreme high temperature. We can help design/manufacture any bearing.   2023 New Week XZBRG Product Recommendation: Silicon Carbide (SIC) Ceramic Bearings： Full ceramic ball bearings constructed entirely of ceramic material. Inner/outer races and balls are made of either Silicon Nitride (Si3N4), Zirconium Oxide (ZrO2) or Silicon carbide (SiC). They are available as full complement (no cage) or with a cage made from PEEK or PTFE. Full ceramic bearings are for medium…

Silicon Nitride Ceramic Thrust Bearings Market 2023 Forecast: Unveiling Opportunities and Growth Silicon Nitride Ceramic Thrust Bearings market report presents an overview of the market on the basis of key parameters such as market size, revenue, sales analysis and key drivers. The market size of global Silicon Nitride Ceramic Thrust Bearings market is anticipated to grow at large scale over the forecast period (2023-2029). The main purpose of the study report is to give users an extensive viewpoint of the market. The report exhibits both Silicon Nitride Ceramic Thrust Bearings market quantitative as well as qualitative data with tables and figures displayed in the form of bar graphs, and pie charts. Key drivers as well as challenges of the market are discussed in the report. Also reports provides an in depth analysis of the Silicon Nitride Ceramic Thrust Bearings market with current and future trends. In addition, the market research industry delivers the detailed analysis of the global Silicon Nitride Ceramic Thrust Bearings market for the estimated forecast period. The market research study delivers deep insights about the different market segments based on the end-use, types and geography. One of the most crucial feature of any report is its geographical segmentation of the market that consists of all the key regions. This section majorly focuses over several developments taking place in the region including substantial development and how are these developments affecting the market. Regional analysis provides a thorough knowledge about the opportunities in business, market status& forecast, possibility of generating revenue, regional market by different end users as well as types and future forecast of upcoming years. What`s New for 2023? Special coverage on Russia-Ukraine war; global inflation; easing of zero-Covid policy in China and its `bumpy` reopening; supply chain disruptions, global trade tensions; and risk of recession. Global competitiveness and key competitor percentage market shares Market presence across multiple geographies – Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial Online interactive peer-to-peer collaborative bespoke updates Access to digital archives and Research Platform Complimentary updates for one year (https://www.theyyscene.ca)   More About XZBRG: Xinzhou Bearing Industrial Inc. is one of the Custom Bearing Manufacturer and world wide Distributors of all types of Bearings,specializing in Ball, Needle, and Roller types (Inch and Metric Sizes) made from Ceramic (Si3N4/ZrO2), Stainless (440c/316) or Chrome Steel(SAE52100 steel); Tolerance ABEC1, 3, 5, 7.level. We work directly with our OEMs and Bearing Distributors. Our engineers can help you with bearing, shaft and housing tolerances as well as semiconductor applications, cryogenic applications, extreme hostile environments, and extreme  temperatures environments. We also stock other manufacturer’s bearings. We distribute bearings for extreme high temperature. We can help design/manufacture any bearing.   2023 New Week XZBRG Product Recommendation: Silicon Carbide (SIC) Ceramic Bearings： Full ceramic ball bearings constructed…

A new version of the MESYS shaft and rolling bearing analysis software including new functionality is available. The bearing analysis software allows the calculation of the load distribution within the bearing and bearing life according to ISO/TS 16281 and it is integrated in a shaft system calculation with additional possibilities like modal analysis, strength calculation for shafts and interfaces to gear calculations. Currently the software is used by customers in 31 countries on 4 continents. The new version is now available. General extensions The bearing databases from Barden/HQW and SKF are updated and a new database from NSK is added. The encrypted Barden/HQW database contains the internal geometry while the SKF and NSK databases only contain catalog data. Custom diagrams can now be defined based on the input in the parameter variation. They can be added to the graphics menu or the main report. Application related diagrams can be defined easily and saved with the calculation file. The software was available in both a 32-bit and a 64-bit version for now 12 years. Now the 32-bit version is not supported anymore and only a 64-bit version is available. Extensions in the bearing calculation The X/Y-factors for the life calculation according to ISO 281 can optionally be calculated from the free contact angle instead of the nominal contact angle. This allows to consider bearing clearance especially for deep groove ball bearings in life according to ISO 281. For the calculation with elastic surroundings now the gap width to the housing can be specified in addition to ring deformations. This allows to differentiate between a cylindrical bearing ring in a non-cylindrical housing and a non-cylindrical bearing ring in a cylindrical housing. Of course, both parts can have roundness deviations in one calculation too. Deformations of bearing rings can now be shown as animation. Extensions in the shaft calculation In the shaft calculation 3D-deformation views are available as animation now. Several options are available to configure 3D-views like enabling or disabling some components like coordinate system or housings. The extended bearing model now allows to consider spacers between two bearings directly now, without adding a part for the spacer. These spacers then have the same temperature and material as the right bearing. For standard cases the definition of spacers will be faster now. The possibilities for CAD-exports have been extended and a preview was added. First a 3D-graphic is shown from which the STEP export can be done. For cylindrical gears and bearings, a detailed geometry is available showing teeth and rolling elements. For 3D-elastic parts orthotropic material data is supported. Now this material information for orthotropic materials can be added into the database. The import of 3D-geometry now also supports closed sheet bodies in…

Paper remains a crucial resource in our daily lives, serving numerous functions such as printing, packaging, mailing, publishing, and documentation. The paper industry is a significant employer in rural and regional areas of Australia, contributing to the growth and development of local economies. The sustainability of the paper industry is maintained by the implementation of circular approaches such as recovery and recycling operations, which positively impact the forestry and manufacturing sectors. The dryer cylinders in a paper-making machine play a critical role in the paper production process. The controlled heat transfer process facilitated by these cylinders, promotes fibre bonding, and removes the remaining moisture from the paper. The steam-heated rolls that make up the dryer cylinders are one of the largest sections of the paper-making machine, each powered by an independent drive. Motion representative Mark Bristowe and NSK collaborated several years ago to develop a long-term solution to a significant issue that a large Victoria-based paper mill was experiencing with its Dryer Cylinder Bearings. The TL (Tough and Long-life) Series spherical roller bearings were installed, resulting in longer change-out intervals and fewer machine breakdowns. TL Series spherical roller bearings are specifically designed for components of papermaking machinery where elevated temperatures prevail such as Dryer Rolls. The bearings were developed as a solution to a specific problem relating to inner ring fractures. This problem is common on dryer cylinders where steam passes through the hollow axis of the roll to heat it. High temperatures in Dryer Cylinder Rolls present challenges to bearings where the journal expands faster than the bearing, making the fit tighter and creating hoop stress. At the same time the presence of heat also lowers the viscosity of lubricant, severely effecting bearing life. “The customer has been successfully using the TL Series Spherical Roller Bearing for a long time,” says Mark, who manages the BSC Sunshine branch. “I worked with NSK to implement this solution, which has resulted in lower maintenance costs and increased equipment reliability,” Bristowe said. Nitin Verma, General Manager Sales for Industrial Solutions at NSK, says that the inner ring cracking in spherical roller bearings is a common issue due to the high temperature variations within the bearing. To counter the effects of temperature, NSK analysed the mechanism of inner ring fracture and established a strength evaluation method that subsequently led to the development of the proprietary TL specification. The bearings are now in service across five high-volume paper machines, with multiple sets of dryer cylindrical rolls on each machine slowly heating the paper web before trimming and finishing. The TL spherical roller bearings are engineered to withstand even the most extreme temperature conditions while still delivering reliable and robust performance. They are designed to…

Schaeffler bundles its activities relating to the remanufacturing of rolling bearings in Schaeffler Industrial Remanufacturing Services AG & Co. KG based in Wuppertal. Remanufacturing saves valuable resources and reduces the customer’s carbon footprint Schaeffler enables and certifies customers to carry out bearing remanufacturing and mounting themselves With the systematic remanufacturing of rolling bearings, the global automotive and industrial supplier Schaeffler has been offering its customers an important service in terms of the sustainable circular economy for many years. Remanufacturing saves valuable resources and reduces the carbon footprint – across all sectors. Since March 2022, Schaeffler has bundled its bearing remanufacturing service for the regional market in Schaeffler Industrial Remanufacturing Services AG & Co. KG based in Wuppertal. Schaeffler also acts as a stakeholder in the “Circular Valley”, a cross-regional initiative of the city of Wuppertal for the green and circular economy. Customers have various options Customers have a choice of three options for having their bearings remanufactured. Firstly, customers can send their bearings to Schaeffler in Wuppertal for remanufacturing. The bearings are then returned to the customer. The second option comprises dismounting, remanufacturing, and mounting at the customer’s premises by Schaeffler employees. As a third option, Schaeffler also offers its customers the opportunity to obtain certification and to carry out remanufacturing independently. With all three options, Schaeffler offers its customers comprehensive support in the form of specialist consultation and the supply of replacement parts as well as auxiliary and operating materials. This makes it possible to achieve the same high level of reliability and long operating periods as with a new product. Sustainability and cost savings There is a great need to save materials and energy, especially in the raw material processing industry. An increasing number of customers are therefore using Schaeffler’s remanufacturing service. The remanufacturing of bearings significantly reduces the consumption of resources compared to the manufacturing of new products. The production of new inner and outer rings, in particular, produces by far the largest share of the total CO₂ emissions during the manufacturing process for rolling bearings. The extent of the savings potential is shown by the example of a renowned manufacturer of roller presses for raw material processing, which had its maintenance teams qualified and certified by Schaeffler. The customer’s roller presses have four large spherical roller bearings that must be regularly replaced. For a remanufactured bearing, up to 90 percent of the CO₂ emissions and 70 percent of the costs can be saved compared to the production of a new bearing. Circular economy for achieving sustainability goals Schaeffler Industrial Remanufacturing Services AG & Co. KG supports customers in leveraging their savings potential. Schaeffler offers the remanufacturing of rolling bearings for a wide range of sectors including…

With increasing demand for sustainable practices, the rail industry is facing the challenge of lowering its environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency. Reveal how bearing refurbishment or remanufacturing could provide a perfect solution by reducing waste and promoting a circular economy in this critical industry. Bearings in railway systems are the true workhorses of the industry. First and foremost, they are responsible for carrying the weight of the train (and its payload), ensuring smooth movement as it glides along the tracks. But everything in life has its service life. Over time, these bearings can experience wear which can lead to decreased performance and potential safety hazards. Bearing refurbishment or remanufacturing is the process of restoring bearings to their original condition and performance levels. How Does It Work? Refurbishment or remanufacturing of bearings involves a series of steps that include disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair of damaged surfaces and/or replacement of worn parts. The process begins with disassembling the bearing and carefully cleaning each component to remove any dirt, debris, or contamination. After cleaning, all the components are thoroughly inspected visually. This is to identify surface damage, wear, and fatigue. The components are also dimensionally inspected to confirm whether they conform to the dimensional and form tolerances prescribed by SKF. If any parts are found to be damaged, they are either repaired or replaced. The bearing raceways are reground when damage is excessive and roller sets are replaced to maintain the optimum geometry of the bearing. After repairing or replacing any damaged parts, the bearing is reassembled, packed with fresh grease, and fitted with new seals. Up to 90% less energy is needed to refurbish or remanufacture a bearing instead of manufacturing a new one! Refurbished or remanufactured bearings offer several benefits to the rail industry. First, they are cost-effective alternatives to new bearings, when placed back into service, refurbished or remanufactured bearings are guaranteed to perform as reliably as new bearings. Furthermore, the refurbishment or remanufacturing of bearings reduce waste and promote sustainability. Less energy and fewer resources are required during refurbishment or remanufacturing operations, this is compared to producing new bearings. This will help our railway customers achieve their sustainability targets while SKF contributes positively to the impact on the environment. Refurbished or Remanufactured by SKF During refurbishment or remanufacturing at SKF, we apply the same quality standards and processes, staff competence, knowledge, experience and passion as when we manufacture new bearings  we also apply the same stringent acceptance criteria that allows us to deliver refurbishment or remanufactured products  of the highest-quality.  Our unique laser marking combined with digitalized programs and software  allows us and our customers  full traceability of the entire life cycle of the bearing, In addition, we have the technology and ability to enhance and upgrade your bearing during remanufacturing. Such upgrades can include the fitting of condition monitoring sensors, integrated lubrication, specialized coating, improved sealing solutions and many other…

SKF and Sinoma Nitride, an industry-leading developer and producer of silicon nitride materials and ceramic balls, have entered into a Joint Venture (JV) contract to deepen their cooperation within hybrid ceramic ball bearings. The cooperation is of strategic importance as ceramic bearings is a prioritized emerging technology in SKF’s strategy. SKF will hold a 30% share in the JV, which will produce nitride rolling elements. With the cooperation, SKF and Sinoma Nitride will be able to provide high-quality hybrid ceramic ball bearing products and solutions to customers in a wide range of industries, including Electric Vehicles (EVs) and industrial applications such as precision machine tools. EVs and high-speed machinery are two of the identified high-growth segments in the Group’s strategic framework. Henry Wang, President Industrial Region China and North-East Asia at SKF, says: "By working in a localized production of ceramic balls with Sinoma Nitride, we will have the opportunity to continue to optimize the end-to-end production chain and to accelerate the development of the Electric Vehicle industry." Weiru Zhang, Chief Scientist of advanced ceramics at China National Building Materials, parent company of Sinoma Nitride, says: "The cooperation with SKF will give us the opportunity to provide more competitive ceramic ball bearings to global bearing users and promote the development of ceramic ball bearings.” (https://www.skf.com)   More About XZBRG: Xinzhou Bearing Industrial Inc. is one of the Custom Bearing Manufacturer and world wide Distributors of all types of Bearings,specializing in Ball, Needle, and Roller types (Inch and Metric Sizes) made from Ceramic (Si3N4/ZrO2), Stainless (440c/316) or Chrome Steel(SAE52100 steel); Tolerance ABEC1, 3, 5, 7.level. We work directly with our OEMs and Bearing Distributors. Our engineers can help you with bearing, shaft and housing tolerances as well as semiconductor applications, cryogenic applications, extreme hostile environments, and extreme  temperatures environments. We also stock other manufacturer’s bearings. We distribute bearings for extreme high temperature. We can help design/manufacture any bearing.   2023 New Week XZBRG Product Recommendation: Cylindrical roller bearings: Cylindrical roller bearings are also available in sealed or split designs. In sealed bearings, the rollers are protected from contaminants, water and dust, while providing lubricant retention and contaminant exclusion. This provides lower friction and longer service life. Split bearings are intended primarily for bearing arrangements which are difficult to access, such as crank shafts, where they simplify maintenance and replacements.      

SKF and Sinoma Nitride, an industry-leading developer and producer of silicon nitride materials and ceramic balls, haveentered into a Joint Venture (JV) contractto deepen their cooperationwithin hybrid ceramic ball bearings. The cooperation is of strategic importance as ceramic bearings is a prioritized emerging technology in SKF’s strategy. SKF will hold a 30% share in the JV, which will produce nitride rolling elements. With the cooperation, SKF and Sinoma Nitride will be able toprovide high-quality hybrid ceramic ball bearing products and solutions tocustomers in a wide range of industries, including Electric Vehicles (EVs) and industrial applications such as precision machine tools. EVs and high-speed machinery are two of the identified high-growth segments in the Group’s strategic framework. Henry Wang, President Industrial Region China and North-East Asiaat SKF, says: "By working in a localized production of ceramic balls with Sinoma Nitride, we will have the opportunity to continue to optimize the end-to-end production chain and to accelerate the development of the Electric Vehicle industry." Weiru Zhang, Chief Scientist of advanced ceramics at China National Building Materials, parent company of Sinoma Nitride, says: "The cooperation with SKF will give us the opportunity to provide more competitive ceramic ball bearings to global bearing users and promote the development of ceramic ball bearings.” (https://www.skf.com)   More About XZBRG: Xinzhou Bearing Industrial Inc. is one of the Custom Bearing Manufacturer and world wide Distributors of all types of Bearings,specializing in Ball, Needle, and Roller types (Inch and Metric Sizes) made from Ceramic (Si3N4/ZrO2), Stainless (440c/316) or Chrome Steel(SAE52100 steel); Tolerance ABEC1, 3, 5, 7.level. We work directly with our OEMs and Bearing Distributors. Our engineers can help you with bearing, shaft and housing tolerances as well as semiconductor applications, cryogenic applications, extreme hostile environments, and extreme  temperatures environments. We also stock other manufacturer’s bearings. We distribute bearings for extreme high temperature. We can help design/manufacture any bearing.   2023 New Week XZBRG Product Recommendation: Cylindrical roller bearings: Cylindrical roller bearings are also available in sealed or split designs. In sealed bearings, the rollers are protected from contaminants, water and dust, while providing lubricant retention and contaminant exclusion. This provides lower friction and longer service life. Split bearings are intended primarily for bearing arrangements which are difficult to access, such as crank shafts, where they simplify maintenance and replacements.  

SKF and Sinoma Nitride, an industry-leading developer and producer of silicon nitride materials and ceramic balls, haveentered into a Joint Venture (JV) contractto deepen their cooperationwithin hybrid ceramic ball bearings. The cooperation is of strategic importance as ceramic bearings is a prioritized emerging technology in SKF’s strategy. SKF will hold a 30% share in the JV, which will produce nitride rolling elements. With the cooperation, SKF and Sinoma Nitride will be able toprovide high-quality hybrid ceramic ball bearing products and solutions tocustomers in a wide range of industries, including Electric Vehicles (EVs) and industrial applications such as precision machine tools. EVs and high-speed machinery are two of the identified high-growth segments in the Group’s strategic framework. Henry Wang, President Industrial Region China and North-East Asiaat SKF, says: "By working in a localized production of ceramic balls with Sinoma Nitride, we will have the opportunity to continue to optimize the end-to-end production chain and to accelerate the development of the Electric Vehicle industry." Weiru Zhang, Chief Scientist of advanced ceramics at China National Building Materials, parent company of Sinoma Nitride, says: "The cooperation with SKF will give us the opportunity to provide more competitive ceramic ball bearings to global bearing users and promote the development of ceramic ball bearings.” (https://www.skf.com) More About XZBRG: Xinzhou Bearing Industrial Inc. is one of the Custom Bearing Manufacturer and world wide Distributors of all types of Bearings,specializing in Ball, Needle, and Roller types (Inch and Metric Sizes) made from Ceramic (Si3N4/ZrO2), Stainless (440c/316) or Chrome Steel(SAE52100 steel); Tolerance ABEC1, 3, 5, 7.level. We work directly with our OEMs and Bearing Distributors. Our engineers can help you with bearing, shaft and housing tolerances as well as semiconductor applications, cryogenic applications, extreme hostile environments, and extreme  temperatures environments. We also stock other manufacturer’s bearings. We distribute bearings for extreme high temperature. We can help design/manufacture any bearing.   2023 New Week XZBRG Product Recommendation: Tapered Roller Bearings: Tapered bearings are uniquely designed to manage both thrust and radial loads on rotating shafts and in housings. We manufacture nearly 13569 bearing combinations – in single, double and four-row configurations. Use the tapered roller bearing interchange chart below to cross-reference bearing part numbers from LILY & Timken, The bearing interchange chart is meant to be a quick cross-reference guide.    

Bearings that are produced in accordance with the Wind Power Standard undergo a full ultrasonic and grinding burn test in order that material defects can be identified or ruled out prior to delivery, thus preventing possible bearing damage and any detrimental effect on bearing life. Over a million wind turbine bearings have already been manufactured and delivered in accordance with the Wind Power Standard Highest quality standards for products and processes Wind Power Standard has been taking rising demands on the reliability of wind turbines and associated components into account for more than ten years Against the backdrop of ambitious climate goals and an ever-increasing awareness of sustainability issues in society, renewable energy generation – including wind power as a central component – is of growing importance. As market leader and strategic development partner, the global automotive and industrial supplier Schaeffler has been supplying reliable bearing solutions for onshore and offshore wind turbines for around 40 years. Rolling bearings from Schaeffler can be found in every second to third wind turbine worldwide. Schaeffler introduced a Wind Power Standard for wind turbine bearings more than ten years ago, which takes into account the high demands on the reliability of turbines and associated components. This standard for products and processes ensures that wind turbine bearings are subject to the highest quality standards, as also implemented, for example, in the automotive industry, and in the aviation and aerospace sectors. The start of the year marked the manufacture and delivery of the millionth bearing by Schaeffler in accordance with the Wind Power Standard. Rolling bearings play a key role in wind turbines The progression to multi-megawatt turbines is resulting in higher loads and torques, which place the components under even greater strain, while the costs associated with downtime and maintenance work in the event of a failure are becoming increasingly higher, particularly where offshore systems are involved. “Our customers require reliable components that allow the increasing power density in wind turbines to be used to its full potential. With the Wind Power Standard, we have been ensuring the highest level of quality for more than ten years – and with more than a million bearings to date,” says Bernd Endres, Head of the Wind Power business unit at Schaeffler. Processes specific to wind power applications for the entire supply chain In order to ensure these high standards, Schaeffler relies on coordinated and transparent processes, a defined change management system, strict quality control, and extensive documentation along the entire process chain, which is achieved in close cooperation with customers and suppliers. Targeted supplier development activities ensure that the highest quality standard is achieved from the outset. Long-standing experience and comprehensive system expertise Compliance with the…

Figure 1: Thrust angular contact ceramic ball bearings remain reliable under micro motion conditions   With the new type of thrust angular contact ceramic ball shaft ZKLF- After HC, Schaeffler Group can provide reliable solutions for pseudo Bush indentation of spindle bearings driven by lead screws. This means that early indentation failure can be avoided.   Dents Almost all machine tool manufacturers have faced the premature failure of the lead screw drive bearing. The operating life is generally between a few hours and a few weeks. What is striking is that after being replaced by the service department, the bearing quickly failed again after almost the same short period of time. The cause of this failure is often "dents".   This ineffective feature is more commonly referred to as the "pseudo Bush indentation" in English speaking countries. In order to better understand the potential failure process, it is necessary to deeply understand the Kinematics of bearings.   In rotating bearings, the phenomenon of "water slip" occurs at the contact area, which is called EHD (fluid elastic contact). This phenomenon is not frightening, it is an objective existence that needs to be overcome. During the operation and contact of the parts, the oil film separates the relative motion between the rolling element and the raceway. Moreover, a wedge-shaped oil or grease film is continuously generated.   If there is not enough relative motion between rotating contact components under the operating conditions at that time, for example, if it is a small angle rotation, the oil film at the contact area is damaged, and dry friction occurs. In this case, it can lead to contact corrosion, which usually occurs when two rotating contacts have relative motion but there is no oil film separating their relative motion. After the protective oxide layer is rubbed off, the exposed iron begins to undergo chemical reactions and point contact corrosion occurs. Due to the vibration problem of all machinery, it will be cleaned before corrosive substances form and enter the grease. The machine will continue to operate in this situation until the rolling element in the raceway is completely corroded, as shown in Figure 2.   Figure 2 Early failure of bearings caused by false Bush indentation in iron/iron contact   In screw drive bearings, the phenomenon of pseudo Bush indentation often occurs when the bearing rotation angle is very small or slightly moving. Because under this movement, it is difficult to form an oil film.   Micro displacement is caused by vibration during machine operation or by shaft positioning. This has a significant impact on mold or chemical users, as their workpieces are usually relatively small.   This damage can manifest as sharp noise or…

Chris Johnson, managing director at specialist ceramic bearings supplier SMB Bearings, explains why ceramic high-precision bearings hold the answer. Robots are on the rise in medical environments, and are being increasingly relied-upon to carry out more complex procedures. Although martensitic stainless steels have been favoured for bearings in robot applications, their performance is falling short against rising standards to prevent contamination in medical environments. Analyst GlobalData predicts the medical robotics market will rise from $4.7 billion in 2020 to $14.5 billion in 2030, and those robots will “be cast more as companions providing emotional support, rather than seen as tools.” The quote refers to artificial intelligence (AI) becoming more advanced, allowing robots to offer increasingly therapeutic support to patients in ways we can’t imagine today, and counter staff shortages. From surgical assistance robots that help perform minimally invasive surgeries, to AI-equipped therapeutic robots used in rehabilitation for injuries and paralysis, medical robots have come a long way since simple robotic arm technologies were first introduced in the 1980s. Although surgical robots are becoming cheaper, modern medical applications are also demanding higher precision and speed capabilities from these robots. Traditionally, in medical instruments, bearings — that optimise the rotation of axes like robot arms by limiting or avoiding friction and jolts — have been made from high purity metals such as martensitic stainless steel. Examples include medical robots that help undertake keyhole surgery where the utmost precision is required. Surgical robot bearings must deliver the highest possible rotational accuracy, while also being small enough to fit into these often compact and portable hospital devices. However, steel bearings have limitations including contamination. While steel bearings are tough and capable of withstanding highly corrosive environments, they are susceptible to particulate contamination due to the very high contact pressures against the steel within the bearing while it moves. If left unchecked, this contamination can cause denting and wear. Of course, contamination in general is unacceptable in health and safety environments. As robots become more prevalent in medical applications, regulations are getting stricter to prevent contamination. Replacing steel The need to avoid contamination accompanies other design requirements such as high speeds, low noise, and non-magnetic properties. For instance, because Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners use a strong magnetic field to generate two- or three-dimensional images of any living subject, steel bearings cannot be used due to their magnetic properties. All of these factors influence the choice of material for bearings in medical environments — but what material can replace steel? The medical equipment sector is increasingly choosing bearings made exclusively of zirconia (ZrO2), or other exotic ceramic compounds. According to the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining, “ceramic bearings made from ZrO₂ are tough with similar expansion properties to chrome steel and…

Thin-section bearings are high-precision products with very little running noise and a high load-carrying capacity. These bearings are available in three different designs with extremely small, predominantly square cross-sections. Within each series, the cross-section remains constant even in the case of larger shaft and housing bore diameters. The bearings are therefore also described as constant section (CS) bearings. This feature distinguishes thin-section bearings from the conventional bearings that are described in the standardized ISO series. In this way, a larger cross-section can be selected in a graduated manner and, thus, a bearing with high load-carrying capacity can be used without the need to increase the shaft diameter. Thin-section bearings can be used to achieve extremely light and compact designs. Thin-section bearings are available as deep groove ball bearings, four-point contact bearings, and as angular contact ball bearings. Each of these designs is available in various series. The series correspond to the cross-section sizes. The balls are matched to the series. (https://www.designworldonline.com) More About XBRZ: Xinzhou Bearing Industrial Inc. is one of the Custom Bearing Manufacturer and world wide Distributors of all types of Bearings,specializing in Ball, Needle, and Roller types (Inch and Metric Sizes) made from Ceramic (Si3N4/ZrO2), Stainless (440c/316) or Chrome Steel(SAE52100 steel); Tolerance ABEC1, 3, 5, 7.level. We work directly with our OEMs and Bearing Distributors. Our engineers can help you with bearing, shaft and housing tolerances as well as semiconductor applications, cryogenic applications, extreme hostile environments, and extreme  temperatures environments. We also stock other manufacturer’s bearings. We distribute bearings for extreme high temperature. We can help design/manufacture any bearing.   2023 New Week XBRZ Product Recommendation: Needle roller bearings: Needle roller bearings have a small cross-section, and they still have a high load bearing capacity. Needle roller bearings are equipped with thin and long rollers, resulting in a compact radial structure. Their inner diameter and load capacity are the same as those of other types of bearings, and their outer diameter is the smallest. They are particularly suitable for supporting structures with limited radial installation dimensions.   Needle Roller Bearings are bearings for rotary motion that use needle-shaped thin rollers as rolling elements. Compared to ball bearings, they have low sectional height and large load capacity. As a machine part, they help save space by making the whole machine compact. They play an important role in a wide range of products such as automobiles, motorcycles, printing machines, industrial robots and construction machinery. https://www.xzballbearing.com/product-cat/needle-roller-bearings/    

Wireless Vibration Diagnostic Device D-VibA10 now available in India Connects to NSK app to diagnose bearing health (detect damage and wear) Customers can prevent unplanned downtime and optimize maintenance/replacement schedules NSK has launched the D-VibA10 in India. Available today, the compact, high-performance device can quickly diagnose the condition of rotating machinery. The D-VibA10 is ready to meet diverse needs in the India market as NSK works closely with customers to level-up plant maintenance strategies and the monitoring of machine health. NSK is expanding device availability globally following a positive reception in Japan and China. What is D-VibA10? The D-VibA10 is a portable, palm-sized vibration diagnostic device. The device magnetically attaches to machinery to quickly diagnose flaking and other modes of bearing damage with results viewable on-site in the Android app. Assessing bearing health helps optimize bearing maintenance and replacement timing and is vital to avoid unplanned downtime due to sudden machine failure. Benefits Easy Setup and Use Wireless – Measure machinery with safety doors or protective housings Magnetic base for easy attachment and removal from machinery Portable and lightweight – Ideal for maintenance patrols NSK App ‘Acous Navi’  – Advanced Vibration Analysis and Damage Diagnosis Scan for damage and determine the health of rotating machinery Vibration meter, FFT analysis, oscilloscope Android App – Set parameters and check diagnosis results on-site NSK Bearing Database Simply select the bearing designation (product number) and attach to the machine to diagnose health Vibro-Data Manager – Data Management Software for Windows PCs Export data from the Android app to the Vibro-Data Manager software for Windows PCs. On PC, you can check trend graphs to monitor changes in equipment vibration values and compare waveforms to visually grasp the health of the bearing (machine). Convert data to CSV file format and automatically create diagnosis reports. (https://www.nsk.com)   More About XBRZ: Xinzhou Bearing Industrial Inc. is one of the Custom Bearing Manufacturer and world wide Distributors of all types of Bearings,specializing in Ball, Needle, and Roller types (Inch and Metric Sizes) made from Ceramic (Si3N4/ZrO2), Stainless (440c/316) or Chrome Steel(SAE52100 steel); Tolerance ABEC1, 3, 5, 7.level. We work directly with our OEMs and Bearing Distributors. Our engineers can help you with bearing, shaft and housing tolerances as well as semiconductor applications, cryogenic applications, extreme hostile environments, and extreme  temperatures environments. We also stock other manufacturer’s bearings. We distribute bearings for extreme high temperature. We can help design/manufacture any bearing.   2023 New Week XBRZ Product Recommendation: Angular Contact Ball Bearings: Angular contact ball bearings support both radial and axial loads through asymmetric races that house the bearing’s spherical rolling elements, also called bearing balls, on an angle. The deeper the angle between the bearing and its axis, the greater the axial…

SKF engineers have solved a major puzzle in bearing performance. Nowadays, they use this discovery more than 260 times a day to help customers design devices for use under the most stringent application conditions in the world. What is the root of the puzzle? Why do hybrid ceramic bearings have high working performance?     For over 50 years, hybrid ceramic bearings using ceramic silicon nitride rolling elements and steel rings have been the preferred bearing in industries such as machine tool spindles that require high speed and precision applications. Nowadays, hybrid ceramic bearings have the advantages of light weight, good insulation performance, and can maintain good performance even under harsh lubrication and pollution conditions, making them suitable for applications in many new fields, from electric vehicle power transmission systems to industrial pumps, compressors, and so on.   Engineers have learned from experience that hybrid ceramic bearings have excellent performance in these applications, and their service life is usually many times longer than traditional all steel bearings. However, until recently, the calculation models used to estimate the working life of bearings still gave opposite results.   Problems that arise In the opinion of Guillermo Morales Espejel, Chief Scientist of the SKF Research and Technology Development Center, this is because the standard formula used by engineers to calculate the rated life of bearings cannot accurately reflect the challenges faced by bearings in real work. He explained, "The traditional bearing life model is based on subsurface fatigue. When the bearing rotates, the component will continue to be under load and not under load for millions of cycles, reaching the material fatigue limit and ultimately leading to failure.   The fatigue performance of materials is well-known, and engineers can substitute the expected load and speed data in applications into formulas to determine the rated life of a given bearing design model. The rated dynamic load C of bearings is mainly used to quantify the subsurface performance of bearings. The rated dynamic load C of various types of bearings can be found in SKF's overall product catalog or online product catalog.   The traditional models mentioned above are widely used and have been incorporated into international standards. But Morales Espejel explained that this model is not entirely applicable to hybrid bearings. Because ceramic rolling elements have greater stiffness than steel, they deform less under load. This means that the load will be concentrated in smaller material areas, leading to increased stress and accelerating subsurface fatigue.   However, more importantly, real-life experiences do not always match traditional models. Morales Espejel explained, "Based on our industry experience, most bearing failures are due to surface issues rather than the problems of the components themselves. The root cause…

Pumping systems are responsible for over 20 percent of the world’s electrical energy demand, and in some industrial plant operations, they can account for up to 90 percent of energy usage. Improving the energy efficiency of pumping and mixing systems is crucial in reducing production costs and supporting a more sustainable future. Several options can be available and with energy prices reaching new heights, the return on investment is rapidly reducing. Saku Vanhala, head of product management at Sulzer, looks at how equipment operators can make positive changes to improve efficiency and help to meet corporate goals in sustainability. Energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important in industry applications due to rising energy costs. Improving pump and agitator performance can result in substantial savings, both in terms of reducing energy consumption and operational costs. The key to improving energy efficiency is matching the design of the pump, installation, process conditions, and operation to each other and taking into account any changes to process parameters that may have occurred over time. Huge saving potential With increasing demand, combined with global price rises, energy usage and how to reduce it, is rapidly becoming a priority for all countries. Among several initiatives, many governments are also supporting businesses with grants to upgrade equipment to more energy-efficient alternatives, to help reduce demand on national power grids. Pump operators should have access to pump data and performance curves, which can be used to calculate current efficiency levels and identify areas for improvement. An expert appraisal of the pump can also provide information on the remaining service life of the pump and help make an informed decision on the best course of action to improve performance. The most significant savings in energy consumption can be achieved by selecting the most appropriate pump technology for the application and optimizing the pump size. Using variable speed drives (VSDs) can also improve efficiency, allowing the rotational speed of the pump to be adjusted for optimal performance. Considering the use of control valves can also result in significant energy savings. Retrofit improvements For larger pumps, retrofitting is often the most cost-effective method of improving performance. This can involve modifying the impellers to optimize hydraulic performance, enabling the pump to operate at the best efficiency point (BEP). For smaller pumps, it may be more cost-effective to replace existing assets with modern, more efficient, and reliable equivalents. Aside from the pumps, agitators and mixers are used in many industrial processes and can be overlooked in terms of the potential savings they can achieve by optimizing their performance. All too often, they can be over-specified or operated beyond the point where optimal mixing has been achieved. In these situations, energy can be saved and…

End-of-line packaging processes can include heavy loads, high forces, and long travel distances. While drives with centrally controlled servomotors are commonly used in these applications, they are not always required for applications such as palletizing, stabilizing, and handling. For these systems, decentralized drive solutions with asynchronous motors are a more efficient and cost-effective option. Nord Drivesystems is highly familiar with the packaging industry’s specific requirements and has developed specialized solutions for end-of-line packaging applications. Thanks to their high inertia, Nord asynchronous motors offer decisive advantages for end-of-line packaging systems. The motors are widely available in power ranges from 0.16 – 75.0 hp and are made for use with Nord’s full line of gear units and variable frequency drives. When it comes to moving heavy loads, asynchronous motors deliver a higher level of control and movement than conventional servo solutions that require adjustment to the application via large gear ratios. They also provide higher process stability, quiet operation, and reduce vibrations along with risk of damaging the loads or packaging machines. Nord’s decentralized variable frequency drive options include the Nordac Base, Nordac Flex, Nordac Link, and Nordac On/On+. These electronic control products can efficiently control conveyor speeds, manage individual product placement and pickup, and smoothly operate palletizing machines without slowing product flow. Along with their high performance, Nord VFDs offer flexibility as the modular design concept allows changes and maintenance to take place at any time without large structural modifications, extensive downtimes, or changes within a control cabinet. The decentralized solution also saves on space as the VFDs can be directly mounted to the motor without need of a full control cabinet setup or extensive wiring system. Depending on the system type and application, Nord decentralized variable frequency drives paired with asynchronous motors can amount up to 50 percent savings compared to the legacy design. The high efficiency of asynchronous motors work to lower operating costs and reduce the number of system variants – saving money and storage space. The motors not only lower procurement costs, but also include a greater selection of options, wider availability, and simplified maintenance. (https://www.powertransmission.com)   More About XBRZ: Xinzhou Bearing Industrial Inc. is one of the Custom Bearing Manufacturer and world wide Distributors of all types of Bearings,specializing in Ball, Needle, and Roller types (Inch and Metric Sizes) made from Ceramic (Si3N4/ZrO2), Stainless (440c/316) or Chrome Steel(SAE52100 steel); Tolerance ABEC1, 3, 5, 7.level. We work directly with our OEMs and Bearing Distributors. Our engineers can help you with bearing, shaft and housing tolerances as well as semiconductor applications, cryogenic applications, extreme hostile environments, and extreme  temperatures environments. We also stock other manufacturer’s bearings. We distribute bearings for extreme high temperature. We can help design/manufacture any bearing.  …

Building on decades of experience supporting customers to optimize their maintenance activities based on condition monitoring, SKF is today releasing to the market the new SKF Microlog Analyzer dBX. SKF has extended its Microlog Analyzer family of data collection devices with a new model that offers faster measurement collection and greater diagnostic power. “The new SKF Microlog Analyzer dBX that is part of our broad portfolio of condition monitoring solutions, built on state of art technologies, is a powerful tool for standalone troubleshooting as well as being part of a comprehensive predictive maintenance program” says Janne Westerlund, Director Services & Technologies EMEA at SKF. “SKF Microlog Analyzer dBX together with our analytic software is providing best in class information and insights of customers’ rotating asset health.” This unique portable solution coupled with analytic software significantly improves the way to schedule maintenance of rotating machines establishing the right and fast diagnostic thanks to its embedded features. When used as part of a condition monitoring solution, the SKF Microlog Analyzer dBX can detect issues with rotating machinery quickly and accurately. “Our new SKF Microlog Analyzer dBX takes measurement with our MPA-in-a-flash method, which makes the device extremely powerful” says Christophe Andre, Project Manager at SKF. “Multi-Point Acquisition (MPA) is our fastest vibration analysis method. It is typically three times faster than the previous Microlog series, saving you time taking measurements and helps to collect data more efficiently.” The device allows the user to carry out a range of tasks including impact tests, digital recording, modal analysis, multi-plane balancing and cross channel phase. It can be applied in any type of industries including pulp & paper, food & beverage, renewable energy, mining, off-highway, metals, automation and marine. The SKF Microlog Analyzer dBX is backwards compatible with SKF’s proven existing Microlog CMXA Series and adds new technology including a high-resolution, 10.1-inch screen that can display up to six measurement windows at the same time, and an embedded camera. Furthermore, it features a hybrid touch and keypad control as well as a simplified navigation, making it more comfortable and easier to use. (https://www.skf.com)     More About XBRZ: Xinzhou Bearing Industrial Inc. is one of the Custom Bearing Manufacturer and world wide Distributors of all types of Bearings,specializing in Ball, Needle, and Roller types (Inch and Metric Sizes) made from Ceramic (Si3N4/ZrO2), Stainless (440c/316) or Chrome Steel(SAE52100 steel); Tolerance ABEC1, 3, 5, 7.level. We work directly with our OEMs and Bearing Distributors. Our engineers can help you with bearing, shaft and housing tolerances as well as semiconductor applications, cryogenic applications, extreme hostile environments, and extreme  temperatures environments. We also stock other manufacturer’s bearings. We distribute bearings for extreme high temperature. We can help design/manufacture any bearing.  …

FDA/USDA certified, two, three and four post, stand-off bearing flange blocks are setting a new standard for performance and hygienics. These new stand-off bearing flange blocks now available from LM76 reduce the surface area where mold and bacteria can thrive, even from the most through sanitizing operations. Long life hybrid stainless steel Si3N4 Silicon Nitride ceramic ball bearings in stainless steel bearing blocks are coated with a smooth non-water absorbing polyamide coating certified by EHEDG, USDA, and 3-A.  These FDA/washdown flange bearings employ hybrid stainless steel/ceramic ball bearings that are sealed from contaminates and bacteria via a patented shaft seal system. The seals resist water, cleaning solutions - keeping lubrication from being corrupted and evacuated. Designed for up to 2,000 rpm of continuous operation, they are available for .750 in., 1.000 in., 1.250 in., 1.375 in., and 1.500 in. shafts.  Metrics range from 20 mm- 40 mm.  Both inch and metric flange blocks are available in open and closed end configurations.  For engineering assistance, step files and pricing consult Mike Quinn from LM76. When downtime is not an option stainless/ceramic hybrid Si3N4 Silicon Nitride ball bearings are the only option. The very hard and smooth Si3Nn bearing balls have lower friction and vibration, lower thermal expansion and heat transmission, all but eliminating catastrophic failure. Additionally, optional mounting bolts, nuts, spacers, end caps, and seals have been meticulously designed to prevent the accumulation of any contaminates. These bearing flange blocks are a complement to the broad range of LM76 linear bearings, shafting and slides that are FDA/USDA/3A Dairy compliant. (https://www.powertransmission.com)   More About XBRZ: Xinzhou Bearing Industrial Inc. is one of the Custom Bearing Manufacturer and world wide Distributors of all types of Bearings,specializing in Ball, Needle, and Roller types (Inch and Metric Sizes) made from Ceramic (Si3N4/ZrO2), Stainless (440c/316) or Chrome Steel(SAE52100 steel); Tolerance ABEC1, 3, 5, 7.level. We work directly with our OEMs and Bearing Distributors. Our engineers can help you with bearing, shaft and housing tolerances as well as semiconductor applications, cryogenic applications, extreme hostile environments, and extreme  temperatures environments. We also stock other manufacturer’s bearings. We distribute bearings for extreme high temperature. We can help design/manufacture any bearing.   2023 New Week XBRZ Product Recommendation: Thin Section Bearings: Thin Section Bearings as listed below are available open, shielded or sealed. Available in a variety of standard and custom inch and metric sizes, our thin section bearings offer high performance in corrosive and non-corrosive environments where space devoted to bearings is at a minimum.

Rollon has introduced its lightweight MiniRoller Rail linear bearing. Ideal for applications that require moderate loads, it features smooth and silent operation and an adaptive design that is easy to customize and integrate into assemblies. MiniRoller Rail eliminates the noise, difficult assembly, misalignment and unnecessary weight typically associated with using linear guides with recirculating ball bearings in lighter-duty aerospace, medical, pharma, life science and packaging applications. It also offers machine builders exceptional flexibility with a variety of optional materials, surface treatments and mounting hardware and fasteners, including both metric and inch sizes. The new linear bearing’s induction-hardened and machined raceways reduce noise and deliver a long, reliable lifetime. It’s highly impervious to environmental contaminants that can otherwise cause early failure. MiniRoller Rail also manages misalignment so installers can minimize surface preparation time. And, thanks to end chamfers, customizable mounting holes and optional locking Helicoils — a requisite for aerospace designs — MiniRoller Rail gets up and running fast. Additional features include: Lifetime lubrication, lowering maintenance requirements Choice of cold-drawn carbon steel, stainless steel or aluminum alloy construction Weight-reduced high-quality bearing steel linear rails and sliders that allow for custom hole patterns Zinc or nickel plating and anodized aluminum for corrosion protection Ability to be equipped with rolling bearing pack sliders MiniRoller Rail is well-suited for space-constrained designs, as well as designs that require a lightweight guide such as for armrests and trays in aircraft interiors. Each unit comes in the industry-standard size 12 mini-Monorail configuration, with rail lengths up to 2 m standard or longer, if required. (https://www.designworldonline.com)   More About XBRZ: Xinzhou Bearing Industrial Inc. is one of the Custom Bearing Manufacturer and world wide Distributors of all types of Bearings,specializing in Ball, Needle, and Roller types (Inch and Metric Sizes) made from Ceramic (Si3N4/ZrO2), Stainless (440c/316) or Chrome Steel(SAE52100 steel); Tolerance ABEC1, 3, 5, 7.level. We work directly with our OEMs and Bearing Distributors. Our engineers can help you with bearing, shaft and housing tolerances as well as semiconductor applications, cryogenic applications, extreme hostile environments, and extreme  temperatures environments. We also stock other manufacturer’s bearings. We distribute bearings for extreme high temperature. We can help design/manufacture any bearing.   2023 New Week XBRZ Product Recommendation: Thin Section Bearings: Thin Section Bearings as listed below are available open, shielded or sealed. Available in a variety of standard and custom inch and metric sizes, our thin section bearings offer high performance in corrosive and non-corrosive environments where space devoted to bearings is at a minimum.