The SlewPro blog
Practical engineering on slewing rings, slewing drives, thin section bearings, gear racks and gears: how to specify them, install them and get the most life out of them.
October 19, 2026
Slewing Ring Crossovers Explained: Rotek, Kaydon, Rothe Erde and More
How a slewing ring crossover works, what has to match between the original and the replacement, the brands we cross most, and how to look up your part.
Read →October 19, 2026
Replacing a Discontinued Slewing Ring Bearing: What to Send Us
Your slewing ring bearing is discontinued or the machine is down. Here is how to identify a replacement fast: part number, drawing or measurements, and what we
Read →October 19, 2026
Silverthin™ Thin Section Bearing Equivalents: Crossing Silverthin Part Numbers to SlimPro
How Silverthin thin section part numbers cross to SlimPro, the 462 sizes we list, and the one look-alike part number that catches people out.
Read →October 19, 2026
Kaydon® Reali-Slim® Equivalents: How to Cross a Kaydon Part Number to SlimPro
How to read a Kaydon Reali-Slim part number, position by position, and find the SlimPro equivalent: add SP- for catalog parts, and what changes for precision, s
Read →October 19, 2026
How to Size a Rack and Pinion Drive: Force, Factors and Module
A step-by-step guide to sizing a rack and pinion drive: the tangential force on the pinion, the service factors that apply, the reversing-load reduction, and ch
Read →October 8, 2026
Cross Roller Slewing Rings: Combined-Load Capacity for Demanding Industrial Rotation
Cranes, offshore equipment, solar trackers, and radar and antenna pedestals need thrust, radial, and overturning-moment capacity with high rigidity in a single
Read →September 21, 2026
Why Excavator Swing Demands Double-Row Geometry
"Excavator swing bearings endure loading intensities that destroy bearings designed for less demanding duty cycles. Learn how double-row ball slewing bearings a
Read →September 7, 2026
Why We Won't Sell You a Single-Row Ball Bearing That's Almost Right
When a standard single-row ball slewing bearing almost fits the application, SlewPro engineers push back before they push product. Here's why "close enough" is
Read →August 12, 2026
When Double-Row Ball Bearings Pay for Themselves: A Lifecycle Analysis
Double-row ball slewing bearings cost more upfront — but in the right applications, they eliminate rebuilds, extend service intervals, and reduce total cost of
Read →July 27, 2026
"Just Give Me the Closest Cross Roller" — And Why That Mindset Costs You
Cross roller slewing bearings exist because precision is the requirement. Specifying by "closest match" undermines the performance that justified the configurat
Read →July 13, 2026
5 Ways Engineers Misapply Cross Roller Bearings (And How to Avoid Them)
Cross roller bearings deliver exceptional stiffness and accuracy — but only when installed and integrated correctly. These five common engineering mistakes sile
Read →June 24, 2026
Single Row vs. Double Row Ball Slewing Bearings: How to Know When to Upgrade
Learn when double row ball slewing bearings justify their cost premium over single row designs. Expert comparison of load capacity, envelope, pricing, and real
Read →June 10, 2026
The Hidden Cost of Over-Speccing: Why a Triple Row Roller Might Be Costing You
Discover the hidden costs of over-specifying slewing bearings. Learn when triple row roller bearings waste money and why lighter alternatives often deliver bet
Read →May 29, 2026
Inside the Single-Row Ball Slewing Bearing: The Engineering Behind the Workhorse
Single-row four-point contact ball slewing bearings handle combined axial, radial, and moment loads in one compact row — but only when specified correctly. Lear
Read →May 28, 2026
Buying a Geared Slew Bearing? You're Buying Half a Drive System
Avoid premature wear and backlash issues. Learn why geared slew bearings and pinions should be engineered as one system.
Read →May 20, 2026
What Got Us Here Won't Get Us There | Scaling SlewPro for the Next Chapter
When we started SlewPro, the goal was simple: build a better way to serve small and mid-sized OEMs who were tired of being treated like an afterthought by the l
Read →May 13, 2026
Hydraulic vs. Electric Slew Drives: A Practical Selection Guide for OEM Engineers
Compare hydraulic and electric slew drives across power density, control precision, noise, efficiency, and total cost of ownership to help OEMs select the righ
Read →April 29, 2026
Slew Drives for Mobile Cranes and Utility Trucks: Engineering Reliable Rotation Under Load
Discover how precision slew drives enable reliable 360° rotation for mobile cranes and utility trucks. Essential engineering guide for commercial vehicle applic
Read →April 15, 2026
How Material Pairings Affect Wear: A Guide for Long-Life Bearing Performance
Master material selection for slewing bearings with expert guidance on steel grades, heat treatments, coatings, and compatibility. Essential engineering guide f
Read →April 6, 2026
Why SlewPro Doesn’t Have a Catalog (And Why That’s Exactly the Point)
Why SlewPro slewing rings are designed around your application instead of picked from a catalog, and why SlimPro thin section bearings and RackPro gear racks ar
Read →March 19, 2026
Rotary Motion Simplified: Integrating Slew Bearings, Slip Rings, and Rotary Unions for Automation Systems
Learn how integrating slew bearings, slip rings, and rotary unions into a single engineered module helps automation integrators reduce engineering time, simplif
Read →March 19, 2026
The ROI of Custom Machining: When Tight Tolerances Make All the Difference
Discover how precision machining delivers measurable ROI through smoother rotation, reduced vibration, lower wear rates, and 2-3× extended service life in deman
Read →March 11, 2026
Vertical vs. Horizontal Load Challenges: Engineering Slewing Rings for Directional Stress
Discover how load direction impacts slewing ring design. Learn how vertical vs. horizontal loads affect material selection, tooth hardness, gear geometry, and t
Read →February 24, 2026
Inside a Slew Drive Failure: Common Causes and How to Prevent Them
Discover the root causes of slew drive failures including misalignment, contamination, overload, and lubrication issues. Learn engineering solutions to prevent
Read →February 10, 2026
Custom vs. Standard Rotation Systems: When OEMs Should Choose Which Path
Learn when to choose custom vs. standard rotation systems for your equipment. Discover how SlewPro's standard bearings combine with UEA's custom motion-transfer
Read →February 2, 2026
Fourteen Years of Serving the Underserved: The SlewPro Story
Why SlewPro was built for small and mid-sized OEMs—offering real engineering support, flexible slewing ring solutions, and responsive service for 14 years.
Read →January 27, 2026
Reducing Engineering Time: How Shared Models and Interface Data Speed Up OEM Design Cycles
Learn how coordinated 3D models and interface data from SlewPro + UEA reduce engineering time by 40-60%. Discover strategies for faster design cycles and elimi
Read →January 20, 2026
The Future of Integrated Rotation Systems: Why OEMs Are Moving Away from Piecemeal Solutions
Discover why OEMs are shifting to fully integrated rotation systems combining slewing bearings, hydraulic swivels, and slip rings. Learn how engineered-as-one a
Read →December 29, 2025
Slewing Rings vs. Turntables: What's the Difference and Which One Do You Need?
Confused about slewing rings vs. turntables? Learn the key differences, typical applications, and how to select the right rotational solution for your engineeri
Read →December 16, 2025
Slew Drive Mounting Options: Face Mount vs. Flange Mount vs. Shaft Mount
Understand face mount, flange mount, and shaft mount configurations for slew drives. Learn which mounting option optimizes performance, installation, and cost f
Read →December 10, 2025
The Role of Slewing Drives in the Transition to Electric Heavy Machinery
Explore how electric heavy machinery transforms slewing drive requirements. Learn about torque delivery, precision control, and component design adaptations for
Read →December 5, 2025
SlewPro Announces Partnership with United Equipment Accessories (UEA) to Deliver Fully Integrated Rotation Systems
SlewPro partners with UEA to offer fully integrated rotation systems combining slewing bearings, slip rings, and hydraulic swivels for OEM applications.
Read →December 3, 2025
How Custom Slewing Drives Reduce Total Cost of Ownership
Learn how custom slewing drives reduce total cost of ownership through extended service life, lower maintenance costs, and optimized performance. Discover why i
Read →November 12, 2025
The Hidden Costs of Using Off-the-Shelf Components in High-Load Applications
Discover why off-the-shelf slewing bearings can cost more than custom solutions in high-load applications. Learn about premature failures, downtime, and total l
Read →November 4, 2025
5 Questions Engineers Should Ask When Sourcing Custom Slewing Components
Learn the 5 critical questions engineers must ask when sourcing custom slewing bearings, drives, and rings. Avoid costly pitfalls and align technical specs with
Read →October 7, 2025
Slewing Drives in Water Treatment Systems: Supporting Municipal Infrastructure
Discover how corrosion-resistant slewing drives support municipal water treatment clarifiers & rotating equipment. Essential guide for infrastructure reliabilit
Read →August 8, 2025
Precision in Plastics: Slewing Rings in Injection Molding Machines
Discover how slewing rings enhance stability, precision, and repeatability in injection molding machines and other plastic manufacturing equipment.
Read →July 1, 2025
Single Row Ball vs. Cross Roller Slewing Ring Bearings: How to Choose
How single-row ball and crossed-roller slewing ring bearings differ in load capacity, stiffness, accuracy and cost, where each fits, and the SlewPro series for
Read →June 26, 2025
When to Use a Triple Row Roller Slewing Ring Bearing: A Guide for Heavy-Duty Applications
Learn when and why to choose a triple row roller slewing ring bearing. Discover its benefits, top use cases, and key considerations for heavy-duty applications
Read →June 10, 2025
Powering Port Operations: Slewing Drives in Material Handling Cranes
Discover how SlewPro slewing drives power material handling cranes in ports and harbors—built to withstand saltwater, heavy loads, and continuous motion for rel
Read →May 7, 2025
Understanding Load Calculations: How to Choose the Right Slewing Ring for Your Application
Learn how to calculate axial, radial, and moment loads to choose the right slewing ring bearing for your application. Explore SlewPro’s custom solutions for eve
Read →April 24, 2025
Keeping Rail Systems on Track: Slewing Rings in Railway Maintenance Equipment
Discover how SlewPro slewing rings support precision, durability, and high load capacity in rail grinding and railway maintenance equipment. Custom-designed for
Read →March 26, 2025
Slewing Rings in Wind Turbines: Pitch, Yaw and Customization
How slewing ring bearings work in wind turbine pitch and yaw systems, what can be customized, and what to check when choosing a bearing and a manufacturer.
Read →March 19, 2025
Slewing Drives in Renewable Energy: Solar Trackers and Wind Turbines
How slewing drives position solar trackers and wind turbine pitch and yaw systems, what they need to survive outdoors, and the configuration options for renewab
Read →February 14, 2025
Building Efficiency in Construction with Slewing Ring Bearings
Enhance construction efficiency with slewing ring bearings! Discover their role in cranes, excavators, and more—boosting durability, precision, and load capacit
Read →February 7, 2025
Boosting Agricultural Efficiency with Slewing Ring Bearings
Boost agricultural efficiency with slewing ring bearings! Discover their benefits, applications in farm equipment, and maintenance tips for durability and perfo
Read →January 20, 2025
Revolutionizing the Communications Market with Slewing Ring Bearings
Discover how SlewPro's precision-crafted slewing ring bearings enhance communication equipment like satellite dishes, radar systems, and telecommunication tower
Read →January 13, 2025
Expanding Horizons in Boring and Augering with SlewPro Slewing Ring Bearings
Discover how SlewPro's custom slewing ring bearings enhance precision, durability, and efficiency in boring and augering applications. Learn about their role in
Read →January 6, 2025
Maximizing Efficiency in the Steel Industry: The Role of Slewing Ring Bearings in Coil Handling
Discover how high-quality slewing ring bearings enhance efficiency and safety in steel coil handling. Learn about their load-bearing capabilities, durability, a
Read →December 23, 2024
Driving Oil and Gas Production: The Impact of Custom Slewing Drives on Drilling Rigs
Discover how custom slewing drives enhance efficiency, safety, and durability in oil and gas drilling rigs and pumps. Explore SlewPro's tailored solutions built
Read →November 21, 2024
Advancing Medical Innovation with High-Precision Slewing Rings in Imaging Systems
Learn how high-precision slewing rings enhance the performance of medical imaging equipment like CT scanners and MRI machines, ensuring accuracy, reliability, a
Read →November 11, 2024
Enhancing Mining Efficiency: The Role of Custom Gearing in Mining Equipment
Discover how custom gears and slewing rings enhance mining equipment efficiency, durability, and reliability in extreme conditions, reducing downtime and mainte
Read →October 21, 2024
Optimizing Industrial Automation with Precision Gearing Solutions
Optimize industrial automation with custom gears. Boost efficiency and precision in production lines, packaging systems, and robotics with tailored solutions.
Read →October 8, 2024
Boosting Construction and Mining Equipment Reliability with Custom Slewing Drives
Boost construction and mining equipment reliability with custom slewing drives. Enhance performance, safety, and efficiency in cranes, excavators, and bulldozer
Read →September 12, 2024
How to Customize Your Slewing Drive for Optimal Performance in Extreme Conditions
Customize your slewing drive for extreme conditions with tips on material selection, lubrication, sealing, and design specifications for optimal performance and
Read →September 5, 2024
Elevating Aerospace Precision: How Custom Slewing Rings Enhance Aircraft Assembly
Custom slewing rings enhance precision and reliability in aerospace applications, from aircraft assembly to satellite positioning, meeting the industry's highes
Read →August 19, 2024
From Design to Delivery: Our Step-by-Step Process for Custom Orders
Explore SlewPro’s step-by-step custom-engineering process, from consultation to precise manufacturing, ensuring quality and collaboration at every stage.
Read →August 1, 2024
Expert Tips: Maintaining Your Slewing Drives to Ensure Longevity and Efficiency
Discover essential tips to maintain slewing drives: routine inspections, proper lubrication, and issue resolution. Maximize performance and reduce downtime.
Read →July 22, 2024
The Future of Gearing Technology: Trends and Innovations to Watch
Explore the future of gearing technology with trends like smart sensors, advanced materials, and predictive maintenance. Discover how these innovations enhance
Read →July 8, 2024
Single vs. Double Worm Slew Drives: How to Choose
How single and double worm slew drives differ in torque, safety, size and cost, where each fits best, and the questions that decide which one your equipment nee
Read →June 27, 2024
The Engineering Behind Our Slewing Rings: What Makes Them Stand Out?
Discover the engineering excellence behind SlewPro slewing rings. Learn about our material choices, load-bearing capacities, and durability for superior perform
Read →June 20, 2024
Why Custom Solutions in Slewing Rings and Drives Matter for Your Business
Discover the basics of custom gear design and manufacturing. Learn how custom gears can optimize performance, enhance reliability, and meet the unique needs of
Read →June 12, 2024
Custom Gears 101: Gear Types, How They Are Made and When Custom Makes Sense
The main gear types and where each is used, how custom gears are manufactured, and when a gear made to your print beats a standard catalog gear.
Read →January 29, 2024
SlimPro Thin Section Bearings: Kaydon® Equivalents, Lines and How to Choose
SlimPro thin section bearings: 1,662 sizes with direct Kaydon Reali-Slim equivalents, in open, sealed, plated, stainless and metric lines, plus how to choose ty
Read →May 18, 2023
Understanding Load Capacity and Axial Stiffness in Slewing Ring Bearings
Understanding the load capacity and axial stiffness of Slewing Ring Bearings are important when selecting and designing them for specific applications.
Read →May 15, 2023
Common Slewing Ring Bearing Failures: Causes, Warning Signs and Prevention
The four most common causes of slewing ring bearing failure, the warning signs that come first, and how to prevent them, or replace a failed bearing fast.
Read →May 8, 2023
Slewing Ring Bearing Installation and Maintenance: A Practical Checklist
How to store, mount, bolt, check and maintain a slewing ring bearing: the steps that prevent early failure, in the order you do them.
Read →April 15, 2020
How the Right Packaging Can Ensure Industrial Product Quality
Proper packaging is critical for quality assurance and preventing any delays in production, saving companies money and boosting their reputation. Learn more.
Read →March 11, 2020
How an Effective Stocking Program Can Save You Money
By employing an efficient stocking program, you can reduce inventory costs while increasing working capital to invest in other aspects of your business. Learn m
Read →January 20, 2020
5 Things You Need to Know About Slew Drives
Understanding the physics, types, functions and features of a slew drive is crucial to successful applications and optimal performance. Learn more.
Read →August 29, 2017
Specifying a Slewing Ring Bearing: The Buyer's Checklist
What to send a slewing ring manufacturer, the design checks engineers most often miss (structure, bolts, bolt pattern, mounting surface), and how to replace an
Read →May 10, 2017
SlewPro Acquires Rhino Gear
SlewPro recently acquired the assets of Rhino Gear. Learn more about the details of this acquisition.
Read →March 1, 2017
Slewing Ring Bearings Explained: Types, Advantages and Where They Are Used
What a slewing ring bearing is, why it is used instead of other bearing types, the main designs from single-row ball to triple-roller, and how to choose a serie
Read →October 26, 2016
Slewing Ring Bearing Lubrication: Choosing Grease, Setting Intervals and Mistakes to Avoid
Which grease to use in a slewing ring bearing, how often to relubricate, the warning signs of a lubrication problem, and the four most common mistakes.
Read →October 12, 2016
Pinions Should Never Be an Afterthought: Matching the Pinion to a Geared Slewing Ring
Why the pinion should be specified with the geared slewing ring, the bore and mounting types to choose from, and what has to match for the gear mesh to last.
Read →September 27, 2016
Slew Ring Bearing Condition Monitoring to Ensure Safe Crane Operation
Slew ring bearings may be a small part of a crane, but they are extremely important. Learn how to monitor slew rings to ensure safe crane operation.
Read →Talk to an engineer
Need help selecting the right part? Our engineers will size it, cross it, and quote it — usually within 1–2 business days.
Not in the catalog? We design to your application, with no engineering charge.