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Hybrid Ceramic Bearings give electric motors a boost
Electric motor manufacturers and end-users are constantly searching for improvements in motor efficiency and performance. Hybrid ceramic bearings from SKF provide new possibilities.
Hybrid ceramic bearings integrate steel rings with rolling elements made from silicon nitride (engineered ceramic). Compared to this technology, traditional steel bearings are cost-effective but have higher friction and lower efficiency. Alternatively, full ceramic bearings are ideal for extreme conditions, offer superior corrosion resistance and high-temperature capabilities, but are more brittle and expensive.
The hybrid advantage
If you have considered the alternatives and think hybrid ceramic bearings would be suitable for your electric motor, you will find a number of advantages.
Firstly, SKF hybrid ceramic bearings are fully interchangeable with the standard all steel bearings which means no special changes are required to your motor to fit them.
Secondly, the electrical insulation properties of silicon nitride rolling elements prevent electrical erosion commonly seen with VFDs, enhancing machine longevity and reliability. This results in fewer failures and a more consistent performance of vital equipment.
Thirdly, thanks to silicon nitride’s low density reducing weight and inertial forces combined with the lower friction coefficient, SKF Hybrid ceramic bearings unlock both the speed potential, running up to 25 percent faster than standard steel counterparts, along with reduced heat generation resulting lower operating temperatures.
SKF Hybrid ceramic bearings can cut down friction by a substantial 50 percent through optimizing machine design.
Finally, the superior performance even with harsh lubrication conditions, can extend bearing service life and maintenance intervals. SKF Hybrid ceramic bearings’ design facilitates smoother operation, extending grease life by up to eight times with certain high-performing lubricants. This improvement can lead to fewer maintenance interruptions (either to relubricate or to change greased-for-life bearings) and reduced lubricant expenditure.
SKF Hybrid ceramic bearings contribute to more than just higher performance levels. Their longer service life and reduced maintenance requirements lead to reduced energy use and fewer resources, making a significant contribution to meeting sustainability goals.
Maintaining performance
To ensure the life and performance of hybrid ceramic bearings, as for all bearings, correct maintenance is essential.
Hybrid ceramic bearings perform best when used with lubricants specifically designed for them. And it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid over-lubrication, which can cause overheating leading to premature bearing failure.
SKF offers the LHGQ 2 electric motor bearing grease as the ideal lubricant for SKF hybrid ceramic bearings. Selecting the correct grease can extend the interval between regreasing, reducing maintenance and downtime costs.
Value v. cost
Although the initial cost of hybrid ceramic bearings is higher, the long-term savings in energy, maintenance, and replacements make them a cost-effective choice. In fact, using hybrid ceramic bearings in electric motors can significantly reduce the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
They improve efficiency and energy savings by reducing friction and wear, leading to lower operational costs.
They have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance, which reduces downtime and replacement costs. They can operate at higher speeds with less vibration, which enhances motor performance and reliability. And they generate less heat – helping to lower cooling requirements and associated costs.
Why choose SKF Hybrid Ceramic Bearings?
There are traditional bearings. There are hybrid ceramic bearings. And then there are SKF hybrid ceramic bearings, which will:
- Protect against electrical erosion from variable frequency drives, and so enhance durability
- Increase maximum operating speeds by up to 25% over steel bearings
- Reduce friction by up to 50%, thanks to the tribological characteristics of silicon nitride
- Extend service life and reduce maintenance costs, by withstanding contaminants and poor lubrication conditions
- Maximise sustainability and enhance operational efficiency, thanks to their longer service life and reduced maintenance requirement
Industry is facing rapid transformation as advances in electrification, automation, and renewable energy – and the search for sustainability – place greater demands than ever before on mechanical components.
As a critical element in many applications, bearings face new stresses and performance expectations. By optimizing electric motor performance and reliability, SKF hybrid ceramic bearings are not just problem solvers but performance enablers, turning challenge into opportunity.
Which bearing is best for your motor?
To select the best bearing for your electric motor, you should:
1. Assess your application’s specific requirements, including load conditions, speed, and environment.
2. Assess the failure history of the current bearing selection.
3. Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of hybrid ceramic bearings based on performance and maintenance needs.
4. Talk to ERIKS and SKF for real bearing know-how.
For more information on Bearing Solutions and to get in touch with one of our ERIKS Specialists, please contact your local ERIKS Service Centre, who will be happy to discuss your options.
#SKF #ERIKS #LetsMakeIndustryWorkBetter #HybridBearings #Sustainability #ElectricMotors
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