Single-bearing concept claims to cut turbine weight

摘要

A single-bearing design concept for multi-megawatt wind turbine rotor shafts not only improves the energy efficiency and reliability of the turbine, but also eliminates drivetrain components, helping to reduce the weight of the turbine. By using its advanced rolling bearing calculation software Bearinx with finite element analysis tools and multi-body simulation models, Schaeffler's engineers can help improve the reliability and efficiency of a turbine under a wide variety of load conditions. The combination of software enables Schaeffler to assess critical load conditions for wind turbines. The use of "moment" bearings in single-bearing designs helps system integration. The preloaded bearing also prevents the transfer of negative axial loads to the wind turbine drive train.