SlewPro Blog

Slewing ring bearings are large, specialized bearings used to support heavy loads and provide axial stiffness in applications such as cranes, excavators, wind turbines, and other heavy machinery. Understanding load capacity and axial stiffness is important when selecting and designing slewing ring bearings for specific applications.

Load capacity refers to the maximum weight that a slewing ring bearing can support without deformation or failure. Load capacity is determined by factors such as the size of the bearing, the materials used, and the design of the raceways and rolling elements. Slewing ring bearings can support both radial and axial loads, as well as moment loads that combine radial and axial forces. It is important to carefully calculate the expected loads in an application to ensure that the selected slewing ring bearing can safely support the weight.

Axial stiffness, on the other hand, refers to the resistance of a slewing ring bearing to axial deflection or bending. Axial stiffness is important in applications where precise positioning and stability are required, such as in machine tools or robotics. Axial stiffness is influenced by factors such as the number and size of the rolling elements, the raceway geometry, and the materials used. Higher axial stiffness results in less deflection and better control over the load, but can also increase stress on the bearing and lead to increased wear and fatigue.

When selecting and designing slewing ring bearings, it is important to balance load capacity and axial stiffness to ensure that the bearing can safely support the weight and maintain stability and precision in the application. Other factors to consider include operating speed, temperature, lubrication, and maintenance requirements. Consulting with a bearing manufacturer or engineer can help ensure that the right slewing ring bearing is selected and designed for a specific application.

Slewing ring bearings are critical components used in a wide range of industrial and heavy-duty applications. These bearings can support axial, radial, and moment loads, making them suitable for applications such as cranes, excavators, wind turbines, and more. However, like any other mechanical component, slewing ring bearings are also prone to failure, which can lead to costly downtime, equipment damage, and safety hazards.

In this blog, we will discuss the most common slewing ring bearing failures and their causes.

Slewing ring bearings are critical components in heavy equipment, such as cranes, excavators, and wind turbines. Proper installation and maintenance of these bearings can significantly extend their lifespan and improve overall equipment performance. Here are some best practices to consider:

Slewing ring bearings, also known as turntable bearings or slewing bearings, are a type of rolling-element bearing designed to handle axial, radial, and moment loads simultaneously. Compared to other bearing types, slewing ring bearings offer several advantages, including:

No matter how great the product you’re ordering is, if it isn’t properly packaged, it’s most likely going to be rendered ineffective or even useless to your business. Product packaging is so much more than just aesthetics or a cog in the process of getting a product from point A to point B.

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A slew drive is a gearbox designed to handle radial or axial loads using high rotational torque. In addition, the slewing ring bearing, at the heart of the drive, enables it to withstand high overhung or moment loads. A descendant of the “worm” screw, slewing drives are present in construction machinery, manufacturing, military equipment and many other applications that require strength and precision.

While slewing ring bearings do perform heavy-duty functions often under the worst possible conditions, they must be treated as delicate instruments to ensure their accuracy and a long operating life. Following the installation procedures precisely is critical to ensuring the best possible performance.

Growth can be painful. 2018 was a year full of many ups and downs. Through it all, our SlewPro team powered through. 2018 was our first full year in our new manufacturing facility, we put procedures in place to exceed our customers’ expectations and we found ways to improve our efficiency and do more with less.

Wind power and other alternative energy forms continue to grow in usage. Companies are increasingly using wind to power manufacturing plants and reduce  the need for nonrenewable energy sources. Slewing ring bearings play a necessary role in the production of wind power. But when the slewing ring bearings used in wind turbines don’t do their job, the cost of doing business can rise drastically and quickly.