WE Series Slew Drives: Weather-Resistant Rotation for Renewable and Industrial Applications
What is a WE Series Slew Drive?
The WE Series Slew Drive is an upgraded, fully enclosed slewing transmission system designed for superior environmental resilience. Unlike the SE series which balances compactness and performance, the WE (Weather Enclosed) series is engineered specifically for outdoor and harsh-condition applications—making it a favorite for renewable energy systems, construction machinery, and defense equipment.
It combines a high-precision slewing bearing with a worm gear and sealed housing, delivering torque, weather resistance, and long operational life in one integrated unit.
Key Features and Engineering Benefits
Rugged Enclosed Design (IP66 Rated)
The WE series is sealed against dust, water spray, and debris. It is ideal for environments exposed to frequent storms, humidity, or temperature extremes.
High Load and Torque Output
Thanks to a robust worm gear system, WE drives offer higher torque transmission, making them suitable for heavier payloads and larger solar panels.
Dual-Stage Worm Gear Option
Advanced models support two-stage gear design, providing improved efficiency and mechanical advantage without increasing external size.
Corrosion-Resistant Materials
Housing can be made of marine-grade aluminum or powder-coated cast steel, offering excellent corrosion protection in coastal and desert regions.
Modular Motor Integration
Mountable with hydraulic, AC, DC, or planetary motors. LDB supports plug-and-play motor kits for quick deployment.
Application Scenarios
Solar Trackers (Single and Dual Axis): Especially in high-wind or high-UV exposure locations.
Aerial Work Platforms and Scissor Lifts: Where safety and rotation precision are critical.
Mobile Cranes and Truck Lifts: For vertical installations requiring self-locking and high torque.
Offshore and Port Equipment: Maritime and deck-mounted systems where corrosion resistance is vital.
Agricultural Automation and Forestry Machinery: Where dust, rain, and temperature extremes coexist.
LDB’s WE Series Slew Drive Portfolio
LDB manufactures WE Series Slew Drives ranging from WE3 to WE25, with torque capacity from 1.2 kNm to 65 kNm. Designs are modular and allow for vertical or horizontal mounting, depending on installation needs.
Key Specifications:
Torque Output: 1,200 Nm to 65,000 Nm
Worm Gear Ratios: 30:1 to 180:1
Sealing Level: IP66 standard, optional IP67 for submerged use
Material Options: Cast steel or aluminum with anti-rust coating
Lubrication: Factory-filled grease with multi-point lubrication ports
Custom designs can be made for large-scale PV arrays, heliostat fields, or military-grade remote sensing platforms.
Price, Supplier, and Manufacturer Insights
LDB is a globally trusted manufacturer and supplier of precision slewing drive systems, including the WE Series. Our worm gear designs are built to ISO and CE standards, with advanced heat treatment and gear grinding.
Price Factors:
Drive size and torque requirements
Gear stage (single or dual worm)
Enclosure material and corrosion protection
Optional motor packages and mounting orientation
Typical Price Range: USD $250 – $4,500 depending on the unit size, protection level, and configuration.
Quotes, CAD drawings, and motor integration advice are available via www.ldb-bearing.com, with engineering assistance offered worldwide.
Why Choose LDB for WE Series Drives?
Purpose-built for harsh environmental conditions
In-stock units for solar, crane, and marine sectors
High-speed production with custom gear options
Global supply chain and on-site commissioning support
LDB’s WE Series Slew Drives are currently powering solar farms in Southeast Asia, water cranes in Europe, and defense radars in the Middle East.
Conclusion
For engineers and integrators needing high-torque, sealed slewing systems, the WE Series from LDB offers a weather-ready solution. With long-term performance and modular integration, LDB delivers reliable, field-proven rotation. Whether you’re in the desert, at sea, or on a mountaintop—trust LDB as your supplier and manufacturer of weather-resistant drive technology.
