SE Series Slew Drives: The Compact Powerhouse for Solar Tracking and Rotational Systems
What Is an SE Series Slew Drive?
An SE Series Slew Drive is a type of fully enclosed worm-gear-based rotary drive unit, designed to deliver high torque, self-locking function, and compact rotation in a single integrated housing. The “SE” stands for “Standard Enclosed,” and these slew drives are optimized for medium-duty applications requiring reliable performance and weather resistance.
The SE series is most commonly used in single-axis solar tracking systems, truck-mounted cranes, aerial lifts, turntables, and satellite communication platforms—where space, precision, and durability are key.
Key Features of SE Series Slew Drives
Worm Gear Design
SE drives use a hardened steel worm shaft and gear ring to transmit torque. This design provides:
Self-locking capability (holds position without power)
Smooth and stable rotation
High gear reduction ratios (up to 100:1)
Fully Enclosed Housing
Each SE unit comes with an IP65-rated sealed enclosure, which protects the internal components from:
Dust and sand
Rain and humidity
UV exposure and oxidation
This makes the SE series suitable for long-term outdoor installation.
Motor Compatibility
The SE series is compatible with:
Hydraulic motors
AC and DC gear motors
Planetary reducers
Customers can specify input configurations for stepper, servo, or brushed motors, based on torque and speed requirements.
Easy Installation and Maintenance
SE slew drives feature integrated mounting flanges and pre-drilled bolt holes, streamlining installation. Grease ports enable convenient periodic lubrication.
Typical Applications of SE Slew Drives
| Application | Role of SE Series Slew Drive |
| Single-Axis Solar Tracker | East-West panel rotation |
| Truck-Mounted Crane | Boom swing control |
| Dish Antenna Systems | Azimuthal alignment and repositioning |
| Portable Lighting Towers | Rotating floodlight arrays |
| Industrial Rotating Tables | Indexing and controlled rotation tasks |
LDB’s SE Series Product Line
As a leading global manufacturer and supplier, LDB has engineered a full range of SE Series Slew Drives from sizes SE3 to SE25. These are available in:
Horizontal or vertical mounting types
Single or double worm drive designs
Custom motor flange interfaces
Integrated brake or encoder options
Specifications:
Output Torque: 1.2 kNm to 35 kNm
Holding Torque: Up to 50 kNm
Reduction Ratio: 30:1 to 100:1
IP Rating: IP65 standard (upgradable)
Operating Temp: -40°C to +70°C
These units undergo strict quality control, gear meshing testing, and sealing verification prior to delivery.
Pricing and Ordering Information
Price Factors:
SE size (gear diameter)
Torque capacity
Motor and encoder configuration
Custom coatings or anti-corrosion treatments
Typical Price Range: USD $250 – $2,800 per unit LDB provides volume pricing, solar EPC discounts, and rapid lead times across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
To request a quote, visit www.ldb-bearing.com.
Why Choose LDB’s SE Series Slew Drives?
CE and ISO 9001 certified
Thousands of successful deployments in PV tracking projects
Localized support in over 40 countries
Design-matching services for OEM systems
Long service life with minimal maintenance
Whether you’re building an agricultural solar tracker or retrofitting a communication tower, LDB’s SE drives deliver the balance of strength, size, and cost-efficiency.
Installation Tips for Best Results
Mount the drive on a flat surface to avoid misalignment
Match input shaft to motor specs (torque, rpm, mounting pattern)
Use Loctite or locking washers on flange bolts
Monitor internal grease pressure if used in high-temperature regions
Conclusion
The SE Series Slew Drive offers a durable, cost-effective rotation solution for small to medium-load applications. Its fully sealed, self-locking design makes it ideal for harsh outdoor environments, while its modular compatibility allows flexibility in motor selection.
LDB’s SE line stands as a proven choice among manufacturers, suppliers, and system integrators worldwide.
Get started with your project by reaching out to LDB’s engineering team at www.ldb-bearing.com for sizing, drawings, and custom options.