By Andreas Bierlein, Schaeffler Technologies GmbH & Co. KG, and Antonio Silverio, Schaeffler Group USA Inc. In an effort to increase the reliability, durability and efficiency of wind turbines, Schaeffler has upgraded its entire lineup of spherical roller bearings (SRBs) for the turbine’s rotor shaft. By using data compiled from 10,000 wind turbines, a thorough investigation…
Schaeffler designs spherical roller bearings to make wind energy more efficient
Schaeffler has optimized its spherical roller bearings for rotor main bearing supports with the objective of increasing the reliability, availability, and efficiency of wind turbines. The development of an asymmetrical spherical roller bearing represents yet another step towards more robustness. The bearing supports of the rotor shaft are of central significance in wind turbines. The…
Bearing manufacturer Schaeffler supports joint research in wind power
After a one-year preparation phase, the “Joint project: Loads on the drive components of wind turbines,” the so-called FVA nacelle, was inaugurated at the Center for Wind Power Drives (CWD) at RWTH Aachen on May 31.
Rolling bearings from Schaeffler’s INA and FAG brands now offer higher performance than ever before
Rolling and plain bearings are extremely important for the function, cost-effectiveness and reliability of a wide range of industrial applications. Their continuous development offers considerable potential that can be used to support higher loads, increase operating life and improve performance. For more than 10 years, X-life has been the seal of quality for particularly high-performance…
Validating the largest bearing test rig in the world
As OEMs build larger wind turbines, bearings manufacturers must follow with larger bearings. Main-shaft bearings can measure 2m on their OD. OEMs are asking bearing manufacturers to ensure that large main shaft or rotor bearings will stand up to the anticipated structural and environmental stresses. Until recently there was no way to run real-world tests…