XL hybrid bearings from SKF are aimed at wind-turbine generators and engineered to provide insulation against electric currents. Their use can almost eliminate the risk of premature bearing failures due to erosion from electric currents. In addition the units can maximize lubricant effectiveness for long-term performance, even under poor lubrication conditions.
These bearings benefit from a deep groove ball design combining steel rings and bearing-grade silicon nitride (ceramic) rolling elements. The units are lighter, harder, less dense, and more durable than all-steel bearing counterparts, and they conform to standard bearing boundary dimensions.
Resulting benefits include higher reliability than conventional bearings along with reductions in life-cycle costs, total operating costs, and maintenance requirements. The bearings can upgrade existing wind-turbine generators without redesigning them.
The bearings are available in many sizes. Custom designs are also possible.
Filed Under: Bearings, Components, News, O&M
Good questions, Mr. Guyot, but I think SKF will have to answer them.
Interested readers can reach the company through David Mikalonis at 267-436-6530 or david.r.mikalonis@skf.com
Paul Dvorak
Hello,
Would you have ballpark indications about their weight and unit cost (approx) for a 2.5 MW turbine?
Also, is there a significant proven difference in terms of lifetime between the std bearings and this new “silicon based” bearing?
Many thanks in advance for your reply.
Regards,
Philippe Guyot