SKF introduced a new model that will help engineers calculate a more realistic bearing rating life. This model will help enable OEMs and end users to match bearings to application conditions with greater certainty, resulting in improved bearing life and reduced operating costs.
Developed as part of the SKF EnCompass field performance program, the new SKF generalized bearing life model will enable original equipment designers and end users to more closely match bearings to actual application conditions.
The new SKF Generalized Bearing Life Model separates surface from sub-surface failure modes. Based on explicit tribological models, it factors in new performance parameters, including those for lubrication, contamination, surface strength and mild-wear resistance. By understanding and accounting for more potential failure modes, the model is able to predict bearing behavior and life under a wide range of operating conditions in the field.
Alrik Danielson, SKF Group President and CEO, notes, “SKF is proud to be taking the lead once again in advancing the science of tribology and applying it to bearing optimization in our customers’ applications. This innovative new model will improve our ability to help customers select bearings to meet their specific application needs in terms of bearing life, speed, energy use and more.”
