Improved deep groove ball bearings: longer life, less noise

Schaeffler has developed two new sealing concepts for Generation C bearings. Reduced grease loss and better protection against contamination extend the grease operating life and, therefore, the bearing's operating life. The new Z-type dust shield, with its innovative labyrinth seal, helps to reduce grease loss by 20 per cent, and reduces contamination by 30 per cent compared with the previous design. The optional patented ELS lip seal provides maximum sealing with low friction and is particularly suitable for alternating axial loads, such as those found in the wheel bearings of motorcycles. This improved sealing, without any additional friction losses, is due to the innovative shape of the lip, which is perfectly matched to the ring recess. Furthermore, the recesses have been moved to the interior of the bearing, which significantly improves its robustness during handling and mounting. In addition, non-contact BRS lip seals and HRS lip seals, which start at the inner ring, are available with increased sealing performance in the standard range.

Reduced noise and friction

The high quality of the balls and a noise-optimised cage enable Generation C bearings to run at significantly reduced noise levels compared with conventional deep-groove ball bearings. Generation C bearings run with even lower friction. These characteristics can be attributed to numerous improvements to raceway parameters in terms of roundness, waviness, roughness and tighter manufacturing tolerances. Reduced friction also means lower energy consumption during operation.

Due to its remarkably low noise levels and friction, Generation C bearings are well suited to use in electric motors. The efficiency of small electric motors with low capacity - the type often found in electrical consumer goods such as washing machines, dishwashers, fans and power tools - is mostly determined by the power loss of the internal bearings. Generation C bearings not only offer 35 per cent less friction than their predecessor, but also cut noise levels by 50 per cent. This means a more efficient motor, resulting in reduced energy consumption. These design improvements mean that the bearings can achieve higher running speeds while simultaneously increasing the life of the bearing. The bearings are therefore suitable for applications in which low noise and smooth running are critical. Reduced friction levels and improved energy efficiency from the bearings reduces running costs for plant operators and more efficient machines with extended maintenance intervals.

Motorcycle manufacturers also benefit from Generation C bearings. For both urban and inter-urban mobility, motorcycles and scooters are the predominant means of transport in emerging markets such as South East Asia and India. Road conditions and the environment are challenging in these areas, which means that the bearings are often exposed to severe contamination and ingress of water. All of this can cause early bearing failures and shorter service intervals, resulting in higher cost of ownership for end users. For this reason, motorcycle manufacturers require wheel bearings with properties that are optimised for harsh operating conditions. Generation C wheel bearings are suitable and combine several important features: less friction, longer operating life and better protection against ingress of contaminants, while retaining as much grease as possible in the bearing. Particularly at high rotating speeds, the frictional torque is reduced, leading to improved fuel efficiency of motorcycles.

For more information about Generation C deep-groove ball bearings go to www.schaeffler.co.uk.