SKF improves sealing for wind turbines

ERJ staff report (PR)

Gothenburg, Sweden – SKF has developed a new range of reinforced HSS seals specially developed to protect large bearings, such as those used within wind turbines.

Featuring a new concept of reinforcement, the all-rubber seals are claimed to offer high stability and to accommodate imperfections in the housing bore. They are available in the company’s ozone radiation resistant material grade - SKF Duratemp (HNBR).

A standard grade of the material is used for the sealing lip, while the part of the seal body that is in contact with the housing bore is made from a harder grade to provide improved stability in operation and during the installation process.

SKF has also introduced a flexible manufacturing process for the new seals. This, it said, enables the seals to be easily customised to effectively match specific shaft and seal housing dimensions without customers experiencing additional costs or extended delivery time.