The operating conditions of wind turbines are complex and demanding; hence the bearings must work efficiently and offer supreme reliability. NKE supplies a wide range of bearings to specialised industries, including the following commonly used types for wind energy applications:
Cylindrical roller bearings (fig. 1 & 2)
- Suitable for high radial loads
- Multi-row and full complement versions available for even higher radial loads
- Special specifications (optimised geometry) and customised designs
available - Modular system allows for standardisation of planet wheel bearings
- Special coatings for enhanced tribological properties
- For both gear boxes and generators
Tapered roller bearings (fig. 3)
- Suitable for high radial and thrust loads
- Able to take up tilting moments
- When paired, can take up thrust loads in both directions
- Usually custom designs and for gear boxes
Spherical roller bearings (fig. 4)
- Suitable for large radial loads and low to medium speeds
- Allows compensation for misalignment
- Usually for main shafts and gear boxes
Four-point contact ball bearings (fig. 5)
- Able to take up thrust and limited radial loads
- Easy mounting due to split inner rings
- Standard cage material: solid, one-piece brass cage (MPA)
- Usually for output shaft
Deep groove ball bearings (fig. 6)
- Suitable for very high rotating speeds
- Well suited for medium high radial and axial loads in one or both directions
- Numerous clearance and tolerance classes available for different operating conditions
- Mainly for generators and gearboxes
Electrically insulated bearings (fig. 6)
- Preventing damages caused by passage of electric currents
- 100% interchangeable with standard bearings
- Depending on size and type of bearings, several versions available:
- insulation coating (oxide ceramic) on outer or inner ring
- hybrid bearings with oxide ceramic rolling elements - More information about electrically insulated bearings >>
Competent services
Equipped with experience and know-how, our technical and commercial teams work closely together with our customers. Our services include:
- Consultancy
- Technical calculation
- Certification support
- Product development, design support
- Training
Special bearings– If your application requires special sizes, load or speed ratings, we can provide you with rapid, practical and creative custom-made solutions. Just contact us!
[ Download brochure: Bearings for wind turbines (pdf, 1,8 MB) ]
