Small sealed SKF Explorer roller bearings with improved performance prolong or even virtually eliminate service intervals and needs for re-lubrication, for gearless traction motors and reduce environmental impact. The new range will be shown for the first time at Interlift, Augsburg Messe, Germany, 13-16 October

Gothenburg, Sweden, 13 October 2015: SKF has upgraded a range of small size sealed SKF Explorer spherical roller bearings offering even lower friction, reduced operating temperatures, higher limiting speed ratings and reduced maintenance. The new bearing can significantly improve reliability and reduce maintenance of gearless traction motors for elevators. The sealed SKF Explorer spherical roller bearing is included in the SKF BeyondZero* portfolio. 

This range of small size sealed spherical roller bearings uses a novel seal design, given the designation ‘RS’, which reduces overall friction in the bearing by up to 20 percent. In representative running conditions, this translates into calculated annual energy savings of up to 145 kWh. For a typical gearless traction motor in a heavy-duty elevator, replacing two sealed SKF Explorer bearings with the newly optimized design could cut CO2 emissions by up to 100 kg annually. Over the motor’s lifecycle, it can add up to a two-ton reduction in CO2 emissions. 

Moreover, reduced friction means they operate at temperatures up to 20°C lower, permitting maximum operating speeds up to twice those of the existing range of sealed SKF spherical roller bearings that the upgraded range replaces. Lower bearing operating temperatures extend the life of the bearing grease allowing lubrication intervals up to twice those of current designs and meaning many more applications can now be considered relubrication-free. 

The new RS seal is designed to operate with an optimized lip pressure reducing seal friction by up to 50 percent. In addition, the outer ring groove has been redesigned for reliable sealing and secure seal retention. RS seals have a rubberised side face that resists scratches and corrosion more effectively than metallic designs. 

In addition to the previously described new features and benefits, the small SSRB with improved performance can handle very high radial and axial loads, while their self-aligning capabilities can accommodate misalignment and shaft deflection. Sealed SKF Explorer spherical roller bearings also offer high running accuracy and excellent control of roller skewing, helping to minimize noise, vibration and friction levels.