Robust spherical roller bearings

In addition, Schaeffler has developed an asymmetrical bearing design.

First, the engineers have reduced the internal bearing clearance, which has improved the operating clearance. This has also reduced the rolling bearing forces and the axial sliding of the drive train. Second, they used a firm center rib for the locating bearing supports of the wind turbine rotor and increased axial rigidity, which reduced the axial displacement of the drive train.

In addition, the firm center rib helps distribute the contact pressure along the roller. With these two measures, they have been able to increase the bearings’ robustness against wear, which is caused especially by axial displacement. As part of validation, the bearings were subjected to comprehensive testing to be granted Schaeffler’s “X-life” seal of approval. The necessary validation steps have been certified by Germanischer Lloyd (certificate GL-CER-002-2015).