Customize Slewing Bearing Complete Guide

/in /by

what is Slewing Bearing ?
Slewing bearing, also known as slewing ring, turntable bearing, or rotational bearing, is a type of large-diameter bearing designed to support both axial and radial loads, as well as tilting (moments) loads. It facilitates relative rotational movements between two parts or structures while maintaining stability and transmitting the required load.

Slewing bearings are commonly used in a wide range of applications, including heavy machinery such as cranes, excavators, and tunnel-boring machines; wind turbines and solar tracking systems; medical equipment like CT and MRI scanners; and robotics and automation systems.

There are various types and designs of slewing bearings, including:

  1. Single-Row Four-Point Contact Ball Slewing Bearings: With a simple design mainly for supporting axial and radial loads, these bearings are commonly used in small to medium-sized applications or in combination with other bearings for more complex load handling.
  2. Double-Row Ball Slewing Bearings: Consisting of two separate rows of steel balls, these bearings can handle higher loads and moments, making them suitable for large and heavy applications, such as cranes, tunnel-boring machines, and large antennae or radars.
  3. Three-Row Roller Slewing Bearings: Featuring three separate rows of rollers, these bearings offer the highest load capacity and typically support the heaviest applications, such as large cranes and heavy equipment or infrastructure projects.
  4. Crossed Roller Slewing Bearings: With rollers arranged in a crisscross pattern, these bearings can handle high axial, radial, and moment loads while maintaining a compact design and high precision. They are often used in precision equipment and robotics.

Slewing bearings may also feature different gearing options, such as internal, external, or no gearing, depending on the specific application requirements and desired rotational movement.

Why need to customize slewing bearing?

Customizing slewing bearings may be necessary under several circumstances to ensure an optimized and efficient system performance. Situations that can warrant the customization of slewing bearings include:

  1. Unique load capacities: When the application has specific load capacity requirements, such as heavy axial, radial, or tilting moment loads, that cannot be met by standard slewing bearings.
  2. Complex or unconventional mounting conditions: Customized slewing bearings may be needed when there are particular space constraints or mounting requirements not supported by off-the-shelf solutions.
  3. Extreme operating environments: Applications operating in harsh environments, such as extreme temperatures, heavy vibrations, high humidity, or corrosive atmospheres, may require slewing bearings made with specialized materials and features to handle these conditions.
  4. High precision requirements: When the application demands high rotational accuracy, smooth and precise motion, or low backlash for optimal performance, a customized slewing bearing can be designed to meet these stringent specifications.
  5. Special gearing options: Customization may be required for slewing bearings with specific gear types, such as internal, external, or gearless designs, or varying gear ratios and tooth profiles to match the application’s power transmission needs.
  6. Material specifications: Applications that require special material properties, such as corrosion resistance, increased hardness or temperature resilience, may necessitate the customization of slewing bearings.
  7. Additional features: When an application calls for specific features such as integrated sensors, monitoring systems, or other additional components, customizing the slewing bearing can help incorporate these functionalities seamlessly into the bearing.

In these and other similar situations, customizing a slewing bearing will ensure that it meets the unique requirements and constraints of the application, thereby achieving optimized performance, reliability, and a longer service life.


How to customize slewing bearing
Customizing a slewing bearing involves designing and manufacturing a bearing tailored to the specific requirements of your application. By following these steps, you can successfully customize a slewing bearing that meets your exact needs:

  1. Identify application requirements: Understand your application’s specific needs, such as load capacity (radial and axial), torque, rotation speed, mounting constraints, and environmental conditions. Also, consider any space, weight, and installation limitations.
  2. Select the type of slewing bearing: Choose the appropriate type of slewing bearing for your application, such as single-row, double-row, or three-row bearings, with various gearing options (e.g., internal, external, or no gearing) and designs (ball or roller bearings).
  3. Determine size and dimensions: Specify required dimensions and tolerances, such as the inner and outer ring diameters, bearing height, and tooth profile of the slewing bearing, based on the given application requirements and constraints.
  4. Choose material and surface treatments: Select suitable materials (e.g., carbon steel, stainless steel, or alloy) and surface treatments (e.g., heat treatment, coatings) to enhance durability, wear resistance, and lifespan.
  5. Design the sealing system: Design an effective sealing system that protects the bearing from dust, moisture, and other contaminants, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
  6. Lubrication and maintenance requirements: Identify appropriate lubrication methods (e.g., grease, oil) and maintenance procedures to reduce friction and wear, as well as ensure long-lasting performance.
  7. Collaborate with a manufacturer: Work with a slewing bearing manufacturer with the necessary expertise, experience, and capabilities to develop and produce the customized bearing. Provide detailed design specifications, and collaborate on testing and validation processes to ensure the final product meets your requirements.
  8. Testing and validation: Perform rigorous testing of the customized bearing to validate its performance, reliability, and durability under real-world operating conditions.

By following this process, you can successfully develop and produce a customized slewing bearing that meets the unique requirements of your application and delivers optimal performance in even the most demanding situations.


Excavator Slewing Bearings Detailed description

/in /by

Excavator slewing bearings, also known as slewing bearings or swing circle bearings, are specialized large-size bearings designed to handle substantial loads while providing controlled rotation. 

What is excavator slewing bearings？

Excavator slewing bearings, also known as slewing bearings or swing circle bearings, are specialized large-size bearings designed to handle substantial loads while providing controlled rotation. The excavator slewing bearing is actually a rotating joint that connects the upper and lower parts of the excavator.It allows the top of the machine to rotate 360° while the bottom remains stationary, making it possible for the operator’s cabin and attachments to swing in a circle.
It enables the excavator to work in confined spaces while maintaining stability and precision. Composed of a gear, inner and outer rings, rolling elements (balls or rollers), and seals, these bearings can support axial, radial, and moment loads, ensuring efficient and reliable operation under harsh working conditions encountered in construction or mining sites.

Features of Excavator slewing bearings：

The features of Excavator slewing bearings significantly contribute to the functionality, durability, and performance of excavators in various industries. By understanding the essential characteristics of these critical components, manufacturers, operators, and maintenance personnel can ensure the reliable operation and long-lasting performance of excavators, ultimately increasing productivity and efficiency within their respective sectors.The following are some of the key features of excavator swing bearings that contribute to their reliability, durability, and effectiveness:

  1. High Load Capacity:
    Excavator slewing bearings are designed to handle axial, radial, and moment loads, even under demanding operating conditions. Their robust construction and high load-bearing capacity enable the proper functioning of the excavator, as well as ensure the safe and efficient handling of heavy loads.
  2. Durability and Longevity:
    Constructed using high-quality materials, such as carbon steel or alloy steel, Excavator slewing bearings offer reliable performance, extended service life, and high resistance against wear and tear. These components are built to withstand harsh operating conditions and maintain optimal operation throughout their lifespan.
  3. Smooth Rotational Movement:
    Excavator slewing bearings ensure smooth and precise rotational movement, allowing excavator operators to control the swing motion efficiently and accurately. Their accurate control of rotation is essential for the excavator’s versatility and application in various tasks, such as digging, loading, or demolition.
  4. Compact Design and Space-Saving:
    Excavator slewing bearings feature a compact design, allowing them to fit into the limited space between the upper and lower halves of the excavator. With their slim profile, they provide efficient support and rotation while occupying minimal space, ensuring the excavator maintains a reasonable weight distribution and streamlined construction.
  5. Low Friction
    Designed to minimize friction during rotation, Excavator slewing bearings contribute to efficient energy utilization and reduced energy consumption. Low friction also helps in extending the lifespan of the bearing by reducing wear and tear.
  6. Easy Maintenance:
    Excavator slewing bearings are designed for ease of maintenance, with lubrication points accessible for regular inspection and lubrication. Proper maintenance practices help to reduce downtime, prolong the service life of the bearing, and maintain optimal performance.
  7. Customization:
    Excavator slewing bearings are available in various sizes, types, and materials, allowing manufacturers to tailor them based on specific needs and requirements. Customization options can include different dimensions, gear designs, or material choices to suit specific excavator models and working environments.

Types of Excavator slewing bearings

The choice of excavator bearing type depends largely on the size of the excavator, the application requirements, and the loads the equipment is expected to handle. Understanding the different types of excavator swing bearings and their characteristics can help you select the right bearing to ensure optimal performance, durability, and equipment life.The following are common types of excavator bearings and their characteristics:

  1. Single-Row Ball Slewing Bearings: These bearings feature a single row of balls placed between inner and outer rings. Single-row ball slewing bearings are ideal for applications with moderate loads, offering smooth rotation and reducing the overall weight and size of the excavator. They are commonly used in small to mid-sized excavators.
  2. Double-Row Ball Slewing Bearings: Double-row ball slewing bearings have two rows of balls working together, providing better load distribution and increased load-carrying capacity compared to single-row bearings. This type of slewing bearing is suitable for larger excavators with heavier loads and greater torque requirements.
  3. Single-Row Crossed Roller Slewing Bearings: Single-row crossed roller slewing bearings consist of cylindrical rollers arranged perpendicular to one another in a single row. These bearings provide higher load-carrying capacity than the ball slewing bearings because of the increased contact area between the rollers and the rings. This makes them ideal for medium to large excavators that need to handle heavier loads and more demanding working conditions.
  4. Three-Row Roller Slewing Bearings: Three-row roller slewing bearings have three rows of rollers, each designed to accommodate a specific type of load (axial, radial, or moment loads). These bearings offer high load-carrying capacities and improved stability, making them suitable for the most heavy-duty excavators and applications with extreme weight and torque demands.
  5. Combined Ball and Roller Slewing Bearings: In some cases, a combination of ball and roller bearings is used in a single bearing to provide increased capacity and versatility. These bearings can accommodate higher loads while maintaining smooth and controlled rotation, making them suitable for various excavator sizes and applications.

Application of Excavator slewing bearings

Slewing bearings are large, durable bearings designed to accommodate heavy loads, enabling controlled rotation and torque transmission in machinery components. Their strong construction, large size, and ability to handle axial, radial, and moment loads make them perfect for heavy-duty equipment like excavators that require reliable and smooth rotation movement.Slewing bearings play a crucial role in improving the functionality, performance, and durability of excavators in the demanding conditions found within various industries, such as construction, mining, and forestry. By understanding the various applications of slewing bearings in excavator machinery and appreciating the benefits they provide, manufacturers and operators can optimize the performance of their equipment and reap the rewards of increased productivity and reduced maintenance costs:

  1. Upper Structure Rotation: The slewing bearing is situated at the base of the excavator’s upper structure, allowing the rotation of the upper body in relation to the undercarriage. This enables the excavator to maneuver and transport materials without having to reposition its tracks continually.
  2. Boom Swing Mechanism: Some excavators feature a swing bearing that enables the side-to-side motion of the boom, providing added flexibility and increasing productivity in confined spaces or when handling materials at various angles.
  3. Attachments Rotation: Slewing bearings are also used to facilitate the rotation of certain attachments, such as grapples or augers, allowing versatile positioning and operation of these accessories.
  4. Operating Cab Rotation: In specific advanced excavators, the operator’s cab is mounted on a slewing bearing, enabling the rotation of the cab independent of the upper structure and offering improved visibility and ergonomics.

Price of Excavator slewing bearings

The price of excavator slewing bearings can vary depending on several factors, including the size, load capacity, material, brand, and additional features. Smaller sized slewing bearings for mini or compact excavators tend to be less expensive compared to larger ones designed for heavy-duty excavators.
The typical price range for excavator slewing bearings starts at about $500 for small bearings, and goes up to several thousand dollars for more prominent and sturdy bearings, around $10,000. It should be noted that specific application requirements, the manufacturer’s reputation, product quality and after-sales support will also affect the final price.
When purchasing excavator slewing bearings, always consult a reputable manufacturer or supplier and compare multiple options to find the best balance between price, quality and performance for your specific needs. Be sure to consider the total cost of ownership, including maintenance, service life and potential downtime caused by low-quality products. Luoyang Longda Bearing Co., Ltd. (LDB bearing) is a company specializing in the design, development, manufacture and sale of slewing bearings and precision slewing drive devices. As a professional excavator slewing bearing supplier, our technical engineers will provide you with the best excavator slewing bearing solution.

Detailed Guide to different kinds of Slewing bearings

/in /by

What are slewing bearings?

Slewing bearings, also known as turntable or rotary bearings, are large-sized bearings designed to accommodate axial, radial, and moment loads simultaneously. They facilitate smooth rotation in heavy machinery and equipment across various industries. Slewing bearings can be classified based on their design, rolling elements, raceway configuration, and gear configurations.

Specific classification of slewing bearings

Understanding various types of slewing bearings and their features is crucial for selecting the most suitable bearing for specific applications and load requirements. This ensures smooth operation, improved efficiency, and a longer service life of the machinery and equipment in which the bearing is used.

1. Based on Design:

Single-row Ball Slewing Bearings:Consist of a single row of balls between the inner and outer rings, suitable for handling moderate axial and radial loads along with low to moderate overturning moments. They are commonly used in cranes, excavators, and aerial work platforms.

Double-row Ball Slewing Bearings:Comprise two separate rows of balls between the inner and outer rings, offering higher load capacities compared to single-row bearings. They are utilized in heavy-duty applications that require increased load-carrying capacity.

2. Based on Rolling Elements:

Ball Slewing Bearings:Utilize spherical balls as rolling elements, which allow for smooth rotation, reduced friction, and high responsiveness. Ball slewing bearings can handle higher speeds than roller slewing bearings and are more suitable for applications wherein rigidity and precision rotation are essential, like crane booms and radar systems.

Roller Slewing Bearings:Employ cylindrical rollers as rolling elements, which distribute loads more evenly and provide higher load capacities in comparison to ball bearings. They are more suitable for heavy-duty applications with slow to moderate operational speeds, like offshore cranes and heavy machinery.

3. Based on Raceway Configuration:

Single-row Four-point Contact Ball Bearings:These bearings have a raceway configuration that lets a single row of balls handle axial, radial, and moment loads, with four-point contact between the balls and rings. They deliver compactness and enhanced load capacity in various applications, such as cranes, excavators, and wind turbines.

Crossed Roller Bearings:In this configuration, cylindrical rollers are arranged in a crossed orientation, providing high stiffness, accuracy, and load capacity. These bearings enable smooth movement and resistance against deflection under heavy loads, making them suitable for machine tools, manipulators, and robotic arms.

4. Based on Gear Configurations:

Non-geared Slewing Bearings:These bearings lack gear teeth on the inner or outer ring and are suitable for applications where no external gearing is required.

Externally Geared Slewing Bearings:Feature gear teeth on the outer ring, providing power transmission to the rotating assembly. These bearings are commonly employed in applications like cranes, wind turbines, and industrial turntables.

Internally Geared Slewing Bearings:Have gear teeth on the inner ring, allowing for power transmission while maintaining a compact profile. They are used in applications where space constraints exist, like robotic arms and medical equipment.

Specific application field classification of slewing bearings

Slewing bearings are essential components in many types of heavy machinery and equipment across a variety of industries. Their ability to handle axial, radial, and moment loads, facilitate smooth rotation, and effectively manage weight and torque make them vital for numerous applications. Here’s a detailed guide to specific uses of slewing bearings in different fields:

1. Renewable Energy:

Solar Tracking Systems:Slewing bearings are used in single-axis and dual-axis solar trackers, which adjust the angle of solar panels throughout the day to maximize sunlight exposure and energy generation.

Wind Turbines:In wind energy applications, slewing bearings are used to rotate the nacelle and rotor blades according to wind direction, optimizing power generation. They are also utilized in wind turbine blade- and tower-manufacturing equipment.

2. Construction and Heavy Equipment:

Mobile Cranes:Slewing bearings are an integral part of crane booms, enabling heavy load lifting and smooth rotation, allowing operators to move and position loads with precision and safety.

Excavators:They facilitate the rotation and positioning of excavator arms, providing smooth movement and stability during digging and material handling operations.

Aerial Lifts and Work Platforms:In aerial work platforms or man-lifts, slewing bearings allow for precise positioning and rotation at elevated locations, ensuring stability and safety for workers.

3. Industrial Machinery and Automation:

Industrial Turntables:Slewing bearings play a critical role in industrial turntables and rotary tables used for material handling, assembly, painting, and welding processes.

Robotic Arms:In manufacturing and automation, slewing bearings provide precise, controlled movements required to position robotic arms and manipulators accurately.

4. Aerospace and Defense:

Radar and Satellite Systems:They facilitate smooth and controlled rotation of radar dishes and satellite antennas, ensuring accurate targeting, data collection, and communication.

5. Medical and Healthcare Equipment:

Medical Imaging Equipment:Slewing bearings are used in medical imaging devices, such as CT scanners, MRI machines, and X-ray equipment, to achieve precise rotation and positioning of imaging components.

Surgery and Rehabilitation Robots:In robotic-assisted surgery and rehabilitation devices, slewing bearings enable accurate and controlled movement of robotic arms and components, enhancing precision and reliability during medical procedures.

6. Mining and Drilling:

Tunnel Boring Machines and Drilling Rigs:Slewing bearings are crucial for drilling equipment and tunnel boring machines, providing rotation and stability during drilling operations and ensuring constant alignment and pressure.

7. Marine and Offshore:

Marine Cranes and Shipboard Equipment:Slewing bearings contribute to the rotation and positioning of marine cranes, allowing smoother and safer handling of cargo, equipment, and containers.

Offshore Oil and Gas Equipment:In offshore drilling platforms and oil rig cranes, slewing bearings enable precise rotation and load handling for drilling, maintenance, and equipment transport.

Supplier of slewing bearing

Luoyang Longda Bearing Co., Ltd.(LDB-Bearing)was established in 1999 and is located in China’s bearing production base – Luoyang, Henan. LDB Bearing has a product range from 150mm to 4000mm in diameter slew bearing and gear rings, covering the production and manufacturing of various standard and non-standard specifications of slew bearings.

If you need slewing bearing for your project, or want to consult some related knowledge, you are welcome to contact us-LDB-Bearing– at any time, our professional technology and expertise can provide you with the best solution to meet your different needs.

What is slewing bearing -Lastest Guide to the slewing bearings

/in /by

Overview of Slewing Bearings

Slewing bearings, alternatively known as turntable or rotary bearings, comprise large-sized bearings specifically engineered to concurrently support axial, radial, and moment loads. Their primary function revolves around facilitating the smooth rotation of heavy machinery and equipment.

Slewing bearings have found widespread applications across diverse industries, including construction, renewable energy, aerospace, automation, medical, marine, and heavy equipment manufacturing. Its usage spans components in crane manufacturing, excavators, wind turbines, heavy construction equipment, aerial platforms, medical imaging machinery, radar and satellite systems, tidal energy systems, and robotic arms.

Structure of Slewing Bearings

A slewing bearing’s structure includes the following components:

1. Inner ring: The inner circular part, with raceways on its inner surface and, where applicable, gear teeth.

2. Outer ring: The outer circular part, with raceways on its outer surface and, where applicable, gear teeth.

3. Rolling elements: Balls, cylindrical rollers, or a combination of both, placed between the inner and outer rings in the raceways.

4. Retainer or cage: Maintains the spacing between the rolling elements, ensuring even and controlled movement.

5. Gear teeth: Found on either the inner ring (internal gear), outer ring (external gear), or no gear at all, depending on the application requirements.

How do Slewing Bearings Work?

The core components of a slewing bearing consist of an inner ring, outer ring, rolling elements (ball or cylindrical rollers), and retainers or cages. Both inner and outer rings feature raceways and gear teeth (applicable for geared bearings) that facilitate the placement and movement of the rolling elements. As the heavy machinery rotates, relative movements between the inner and outer rings trigger motion among the rolling elements in the raceways. This mechanism, in turn, decreases the friction between components and allows for the efficient transfer of axial, radial, and moment forces.

Slewing bearings exhibit the following characteristics:

1. Ability to handle combined axial, radial, and moment loads.

2. Resistance to high and low temperatures, with some specialized types designed for extreme temperature conditions.

3. Customizable gear teeth options for different applications (internal gear, external gear, or no gear).

4. Available in various designs such as single-row or double-row ball bearings, single-, double-, or triple-row roller bearings, or combined roller-ball bearings.

5. Ability to handle high overturning moments due to their large size and configurations.

6. High-quality bearings offer a long service life and low maintenance intervals.

Working Principle of Slewing Bearings

Slewing bearings primarily function through the friction derived from components within the bearing. The rolling motion of the rolling elements imparts the necessary reduction in friction for the simultaneous transfer of axial, radial, and moment forces across the bearing. This bearing setup ensures that heavy machinery and equipment operate smoothly with minimal wear and tear.

Dimensions of Slewing Bearings

Slewing bearings come in various diameters and sizes, depending on the application and load requirements. They can range from a few inches to several meters in diameter. The exact dimensions are determined by factors such as the bearing’s design, load capacity, and rotational speed requirements. We can customize the bearings according to specific customer needs. If you need more information or requirements of slewing bearing, please feel free to contact us.

Applications of Slewing Bearings

Slewing bearings are vital for facilitating the rotation and support of heavy loads in numerous applications, such as:

1. Crane manufacturing: They ensure smooth and precise rotational movement of crane booms and load handling.

2. Excavators: Slewing bearings help excavator booms and arms perform reliable and robust rotational movements.

3. Wind turbines: They ensure that nacelles rotate precisely, enabling the wind turbine blades to adapt and face the wind direction.

4. Heavy-duty construction equipment: Slewing bearings provide rotational support in equipment like tunnel boring machines and heavy-duty drilling rigs.

5. Aerial platforms: They offer stability and rotation in boom lifts, scissor lifts, and other aerial work platforms.

6. Medical equipment: In CT and MRI scanners, slewing bearings enable accurate and smooth rotation of the scanning gantries.

7. Radar and satellite systems: They facilitate the precise and consistent rotation of radar antennae and satellite dishes for accurate tracking and data acquisition.

8. Tidal energy systems: Slewing bearings enable the rotation of underwater turbines to optimize the harvest of tidal energy.

9. Robotic arms and manufacturing systems: They maintain stability and enable precise rotation in industrial robots and other automated equipment.

Industries Using Slewing Bearings

Slewing bearings have proved indispensable across several industries, including but not limited to:

1. Construction: In cranes, excavators, drilling rigs, and tunnel boring machines.

2. Renewable energy: In wind turbines, tidal energy systems, and solar tracking systems.

3. Aerospace: In radar antennae, satellite systems, defense-related applications, and loading machinery.

4. Automation: In industrial robots, robotic arms, and other automated equipment.

5. Medical: In CT and MRI scanners, and radiotherapy machines.

6. Marine: In ship cranes, offshore equipment, and tidal energy systems.

7. Heavy equipment manufacturing: In large-scale machinery production.

How do you test a Slewing Bearing?

Multiple steps are involved in the testing of a slewing bearing:

1. Conduct a comprehensive visual inspection to identify visible damage, corrosion, cracks, or wear on the bearing components.

2. Deploy feeler gauges to measure the radial and axial clearances, ensuring they fall within acceptable limits.

3. Inspect the lubrication system and lubricate the bearing according to manufacturer guidelines.

4. Check for smooth rotation and listen to any abnormal noises emanating from the bearing, which may signal potential issues.

5. Implement non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, such as ultrasonic testing or magnetic particle inspection, to pinpoint any flaws in the bearing materials.

How to choosing the Right Slewing Bearing?

To select a suitable slewing bearing, several factors must be taken into account:

1. Load requirements: Evaluate the axial, radial, and moment loads the bearing may face during operation.

2. Operating environment: Select a bearing designed to withstand specific working conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to dust or chemicals.

3. Gear type: Choices include internal, external, or no gear, depending on application requirements.

4. Bearing size: Depending on available space and load requirements, choose an appropriate diameter.

5. Bearing type: Select from single-row or double-row ball bearings, single-, double-, or triple-row roller bearings, or a combination of roller-ball bearings, considering load capacity and rigidity requirements.

6. Material: Assess the specific requirements and operating environments to select suitable material for bearing components, such as high-strength steel or corrosion-resistant alloys.

7. Lubrication: Evaluate the lubrication requirements for the application— grease or oil lubrication— and ensure proper sealing to prolong bearing life and maintain optimal performance.

Supplier of slewing bearing

Luoyang Longda Bearing Co., Ltd.(LDB-Bearing)was established in 1999 and is located in China’s bearing production base – Luoyang, Henan. LDB Bearing has a product range from 150mm to 4000mm in diameter slew bearing and gear rings, covering the production and manufacturing of various standard and non-standard specifications of slew bearings. LDB has design and manufacturing expertise in slew bearing and slew drive across a diverse range of markets and industries.

If you need slewing bearing for your project, or want to consult some related knowledge, you are welcome to contact us at any time, our professional technology and expertise can provide you with the best solution to meet your different needs.

The structure and function of the slewing drive of the truck-mounted crane

/in /by

Slew Drive

The structure and function of the slewing drive of the truck-mounted crane

Slew Drive Structure

The slewing drive device of the truck-mounted crane includes a hydraulic motor, a brake and a reducer.

Function:

1.Hydraulic Motor

Convert the pressure of hydraulic oil into rotational mechanical energy and transmit the rotational motion to the reducer.

2.Brake

The brake is inside the hydraulic motor and brakes the output shaft of the hydraulic motor.

3.Reducer

The reducer of truck-mounted crane is composed of a two-stage reduction planetary gear transmission. It is decelerated through the gear transmission device and transmitted to the output shaft of the reducer.

Slewing Bearing

Abnormal noise problem of excavator slewing bearing

It is normal for the new slewing bearing to make a uniform sound of rolling steel balls when it is idling. It will disappear after a period of running-in after installation. If there is a loud sound or special noise, you should pay attention.

1. The mounting surface is uneven and the mounting bolts are loose

2. There is a foreign body in the slewing bearing

3. Abnormal noise caused by a problem with the grease

4. Raceway and rolling body are severely worn

Conclusion: you should not be careless when there is abnormal noise in the excavator slewing bearing, you must check and solve the fault in time.

Slewing Gear Ring Bearing Drive

/in , /by

Slewing Gear Ring Bearing & Slewing Gear  Drive

Rotary gears are usually divided into two types, one is the rotary gear support bearing, the other is the rotary gear drive
Slewing gear support bearings are composed of an inner ring and an outer ring, usually one of which contains the gear. Together with the connecting holes on the two rings, they are easily and quickly wired through the adjacent link components for optimized power transmission. Slewing gear bearing raceways combined with rolling elements and cages are designed to withstand loads acting individually or in combination in any direction.
Rotary gears can be used in various industries such as aerospace, heavy equipment, industrial machinery, medical systems, mining, oil and gas, etc., and are the key to many industries and play a vital role.
The slewing gear support bearing is different from ordinary bearings, the difference is that it has a gear that can adjust the rotation. The machine transmits and adjusts the direction of the mechanical products fixed on the slewing bearing through the dynamic sensing system installed on the slewing gear bearing. and take advantage of special constructs:

It maintains the overall balance, effectively guarantees the radial force generated in the work, and ensures the balance.

The rotary gear drive is a kind of turntable fixed in the gear box, which can safely bear the radial and axial load force, and drives the rotation of the turntable through the rotation of the turbine. Rotary gear drive is a gearbox composed of gears, bearings, seals, casings and motors.
The rotary gear drive is a modification of the worm drive mechanism. It dates back to the Renaissance period, when the Greek mathematician Pappus devised a worm drive. Da Vinci also used the slewing gear drive trim in many of its machines.


The driving force of the rotary gear drive comes from the rotational force given by the motor to the worm, and the gear on the worm is adjusted by the gear on the electric turntable. This combination mode reduces the rotation speed of the turntable, increases the torque, and can drive heavier objects.
Slewing gear drives can be applied to solar trackers, wind turbines, elevators, hydraulic machinery, telescopic arms, cranes and other equipment.

Large Diameter Slewing Bearings

/in /by

LDB high quality large diameter slewing bearing

The high-quality large-diameter slewing bearing produced by LDB leads the world, and has more than 20 years of experience in the design, development and customization of large-diameter ball bearings. LDB’s high-quality service has won unanimous praise from customers.

LDB oversized bearing combination

The range of oversized bearings currently produced by LDB includes large diameter slewing ring bearings, single row bearings, double row four point bearings, triple row ball bearings, and also offers a variety of custom designed special bearings.

The slewing ring bearings produced by LDB include external, internal and gearless bearings. Among them, the bearing with gear needs to be determined according to the actual situation.

Multifunctional application of LDB large slewing ring bearing

The large diameter bearings produced by LDB are used in various fields, and different designs meet different needs. This includes construction machinery such as excavators and drilling rigs, as well as mining, construction and offshore wind turbines.

LDB one-stop bearing solution

LDB offers a range of system solutions. The large diameter slewing bearing of LDB is perfectly combined with the LDB slewing drive. According to customer requirements, we provide corresponding electric or hydraulic motor control technology, so that customers can choose more easily and quickly.

LDB large slewing bearing high quality, high reliability

All components of large slewing rings produced by LDB meet the highest standards in terms of functionality and are able to meet customer needs even under extreme conditions. LDB implements a strict management program to ensure product reliability and long service life.

Unified quality management system

The LDB large slewing bearing is a trademark of excellent quality. In order to maintain high standards, LDB adopts advanced management methods, and strictly controls each development and production process, and all production processes are assembled in the computer data on file. This allows full control, monitoring and traceability. Processes are continuously improved through various assessments.

LDB large diameter slewing bearing adopts high quality raw materials

All components of LDB large diameter bearings are made of raw materials of the highest quality standards. Raw material parts are provided by qualified suppliers and audited regularly. For special raw materials, we manage production with standards that exceed the industry.

In addition to the use of 42CrMo4 alloy for large slewing ring bearings, polymer spacers are usually used for the cage between the bearing balls. However, brass alloy or steel is used as the material in extra large bearings, which can prevent corrosion and wear.

Slewing Bearing Installation Surface

/in , , , , /by

Mechanical machining of the bearing connection surfaces on the connecting structure is required . The mounting position of slewing bearings must correspond to that shown in the drawing. If a transporting cross was delivered, it has to be removed before installation.

The corrosion protection can be removed with an alkaline cleaner. Cleaner must be prevented from coming into contact with the seals or the raceway. Remove the protective coating from the upper and the lower mounting surfaces of the slewing bearing as well as from the gear.

The corrosion protection can easily be removed, for example, using a biodegradable alkaline cleaner.

Rapid removal of the corrosion protection and low environmental impact.

The unhardened zone between the beginning and the end of the hardened region of the raceway is marked with an “S” on the inner or outer diameter of each bearing ring. On the gear ring, the hardness gap is marked on the axial surface. Wherever possible, the hardness gap “S” must be positioned outside the main load-carrying areas. If the main working area for the application is known, then the hardness gap of the ring loaded on the circum-ference must also be positioned outside the main load-carrying area.

The bearing must be completely screwed on for commissionings and test runs. Sufficient load / moment loan must be applied to avoid a slip-stick effect on the anti-friction bearing bodies.

Gearing

Entanglement hazard due to exposed gear

  • Keep hands away from moving parts

The backlash is adjusted relative to the three gear teeth marked in green and should be 0.03 – 0.04 x module.After the final tightening of the bearing,the backlash should be rechecked over the entire circumference. A tip edge radius and a tip relief must be provided on the pinion.

How to maintain the slewing bearing during use?

/in , /by

We know that the quality of the slewing bearing itself is the main factor affecting the service life of the bearing, but no, because in addition to the quality of the bearing, there is also a very important issue, that is, the maintenance and maintenance of the bearing during its use, but, How to maintain the slewing bearing during use?

Lubrication of slewing bearing

Slewing Bearings

1. Lubrication

(1) Reduce friction and wear. In the mutual contact parts of the rings, rolling elements and cages that constitute the bearing, metal contact is prevented, and friction and wear are reduced.

(2) Extend the fatigue life. The rolling fatigue life of the bearing is extended when the rolling contact surface is well lubricated during rotation. Conversely, if the oil viscosity is low and the lubricating oil film thickness is not good, it will be shortened.

(3) Discharge frictional heat and cooling. The oil circulation method, etc., can use oil to discharge heat generated by friction or heat from the outside, and cool it. Prevent the bearing from overheating and prevent the aging of the lubricating oil itself.

(4) Others. It also has the effect of preventing foreign matter from entering the inside of the bearing, or preventing rust and corrosion.

2. Lubrication method

Bearing lubrication methods are divided into grease lubrication and oil lubrication. In order to make the bearing function well, first of all, it is necessary to select a lubrication method suitable for the conditions of use and the purpose of use. If only lubrication is considered, the lubricity of oil lubrication is dominant. However, grease lubrication has the advantage of simplifying the structure around the bearing. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of grease lubrication and oil lubrication.

Cleaning of slewing bearing

1. Selection of cleaning materials

As the cleaning agent, cleaning agent and kerosene are generally used. In addition, pay attention to sealing the cleaning agent when not in use to avoid the entry of external magazines and contaminating the cleaning agent. In the case of inattentiveness, cleaning the bearing with the contaminated cleaning agent will not only not have a cleaning effect, but will contaminate the bearing and cause the bearing to be polluted. Running brings stress.

2. Cleaning precautions

(1) The disassembled bearing is cleaned, divided into coarse cleaning and fine cleaning, and placed in the container respectively, first put on the bottom of the metal mesh, so that the bearing does not directly contact the dirt of the container.

(2) During rough cleaning, if the bearing is rotated with dirt, it will damage the rolling surface of the bearing, so be careful. In the rough cleaning oil, use a brush to remove grease and adhesions. After it is roughly clean, transfer to the fine cleaning.

(3) Fine cleaning is to carefully clean the bearing while rotating in the cleaning oil.

slewing bearings

Maintenance of slewing bearing

1. Maintenance method

(1) Check the state of the raceway surface, rolling surface, and mating surface, the wear of the cage, the increase of bearing clearance, and the damage and abnormality irrelevant to the decrease of dimensional accuracy.

(2) For small ball bearings, support the inner ring horizontally with one hand, and rotate the outer ring to check whether it is smooth. For separable bearings such as tapered roller bearings, the rolling elements and the raceway surface of the outer ring can be inspected separately.

2. Maintenance precautions

(1) In order to judge whether the disassembled bearing can be used, it should be checked after the bearing is cleaned.

(2) Special tools and disassembly steps and techniques should be used for bearing disassembly to avoid damage to the bearing due to the disassembly of the bearing for maintenance, which is not worth the loss.

(3) Since large bearings cannot be rotated by hand, pay attention to checking the appearance of rolling elements, raceway surfaces, cages, rib surfaces, etc. The higher the importance of the bearing, the more careful inspection is required.

The above is the summary of how to maintain and maintain the slewing bearing during the use of the slewing bearing. It can be seen that the maintenance skills in the use of the slewing bearing include lubrication, cleaning, and maintenance.

Bearing lubrication should pay attention to the selection of appropriate lubricants, pay attention to the distinction between coarse and fine washing when cleaning, and pay attention to disassembly, rotation and other issues when overhauling.

Light slewing bearings & Medium slewing bearings

/in /by

Light slewing bearings & Medium slewing bearings

LDB manufactures many types and variants of slewing rings. The most common bearings in stock or with short lead times are:

  • Single row four-point contact ball slewing bearing
  • Single row crossed cylindrical roller slewing ring

These standard slewing bearings are described on the following pages and their performance data are listed in the relevant product tables.

LDB also manufactures various other types of slewing rings. For more information on these bearings, please contact LDB Application Engineering Services.

Single ball slewing bearings

Light slewing bearings

  • with an external gear
  • with an internal gear
  • without a gear

Medium slewing bearings

  • with an external gear
  • with an internal gear
  • without a gear gear

Single roller slewing bearings

Medium roller slewing bearings

  • with an external gear
  • with an internal gear
  • without a gear