NSK has launched a new series of spherical roller bearings (SRBs) designed specifically for wind turbine main shafts, featuring three cutting-edge technologies aimed at reducing wear and boosting load capacity. These innovations include NSK’s proprietary Super-TF material, a diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating with exceptional hardness, and a redesigned extra-capacity ECA cage.
The Super-TF material strengthens bearing surfaces by evenly dispersing fine carbides throughout the inner and outer rings, significantly enhancing resistance to raceway wear. Complementing this, the DLC coating applied to the rollers enhances surface durability and reduces friction and wear at the critical roller-raceway interface. The innovative ECA cage eliminates the need for a traditional guide ring, allowing for the installation of larger and more rollers, which substantially increases the bearing’s load capacity and improves its wear resistance.
NSK reports that this combination of technologies has cut raceway wear to less than 10% of that seen in conventional bearings. Originally developed in 2024 to serve wind turbine operators in North America, NSK has now scaled up production for a global market. Looking ahead, NSK plans to integrate these SRBs with its condition monitoring systems, offering enhanced support for turbine maintenance and operational reliability.
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