Photo: SKF.
SKF developed a hybrid deep groove ball bearing for high-speed applications. The new bearing is aimed at applications such as rail industry traction motors, and electric machines and drives.
A lightweight cage helps to boost the limiting speed by 60 per cent compared to traditional designs. The polymeric cage helps to reduce friction, leading to quieter operation and allowing higher power density in the application.
“Our new cage design helps our customers to get more power from electric motors, which enables downsizing,” said Andreas Pichler, business and project engineer, SKF.
Its two-piece cage is made from PEEK and PA66, making it 80 per cent lighter than a brass cage. As well as running more quietly, the bearing operates at a lower temperature, which prolongs grease life and extends relubrication intervals.
