Timken Dissects Bearings And “Analyzes” The Underlying Logic Of Efficient Maintenance

When a piece of equipment has a multi-axis support system, replacing bearings becomes relatively complicated. Gearboxes, drives... many peripheral parts need to be disassembled in order to replace the integral bearings. This not only makes bearing replacement face many technical challenges, but may also bring the risk of unpredictable downtime.

In order to meet the needs of industries with simple and efficient bearing maintenance, Timken's split bearings came into being - TIMKEN® split cylindrical roller bearing unit with seat, with its original design, has radial and axial It is widely used in equipment with load-bearing requirements and has become an ideal choice for various "restricted occasions" as described by engineers.

Explore the simplicity and complexity of split bearings

Split bearings are named after their structure that can be split up and down. Unlike solid bearings, their outer ring, inner ring, roller and cage assembly and bearing seat can be completely split and assembled together at any time without disassembly. and reassembling other surrounding parts, greatly reducing downtime and doubling the efficiency of bearing replacement and maintenance.


 

Although the principle of split bearings to simplify maintenance is very intuitive, its design engineering is not "simple" and requires a high degree of professionalism. Since acquiring a split bearing manufacturer in 2014, Timken has applied its expertise in rheology, tribology and predictive modeling to expand and fine-tune its product line for the most challenging applications and more stringent requirements.

The exquisite design of the TIMKEN® split cylindrical roller bearing unit relies on precise and rigorous calculations. In order to enable it to be smoothly disassembled, we have applied complex engineering techniques that are rarely seen in the bearing industry. This "keep improving" concept will also be implemented by Timken into the development and production of each bearing product.

Uncovering the design story of split bearings
 

In order to create higher quality and more valuable bearing products on the market, Timken's R&D team conducted in-depth communications with many engineers in the early stages of development to understand their needs and preferences in actual operations. Based on a large number of market surveys , comprehensively upgraded the design of split bearings.

These include improvements to the roller and cage assembly, providing a more functional assembly mechanism. In addition, the product has also achieved innovative upgrades in materials, component design and sealing options - using brass material that is stronger and has better friction resistance, while providing eight standard sealing options. These seals range from felt seals for clean environments, to waterproof seals for underwater applications, to Kevlar synthetic fiber seals for applications such as cement plants. Timken also offers custom seals or complete bearings if required.

Wide range of applications of split bearings
 

It is precisely after such meticulous research and development that TIMKEN® split seated cylindrical roller bearing units are widely used in hydropower generation, ship maintenance, etc. with their more convenient performance, longer life, and lower maintenance costs. A series of industrial scenarios such as cargo handling and sewage treatment support the smooth operation of all walks of life.

hydroelectric power

For use in horizontal turbines and generators, TIMKEN® split housed cylindrical roller bearing units are not only easier and faster to install than solid bearings, they are also better able to withstand thrust loads and axial thermal expansion.
 

Vessel maintenance

Usually the long shaft from the drive to the stern propeller will be supported by several bearings, and if one of them fails, the bearings must be replaced in dry dock. But with TIMKEN® split cylindrical roller bearing units, replacement can be done while on the water or during a short dockside stay.


cargo handling

Replacing the integral bearing meant renting a crane to remove the gearbox and delaying operations for three days, at a total cost of more than $300,000. TIMKEN® split-mounted cylindrical roller bearing units allow repair or replacement to be completed in just hours.

Wastewater treatment

Cyclone aerators are important equipment for aerobic biodegradation in sewage treatment plants, but constant replacement of integral bearings not only requires a large crane to lift a 25-ton heavy shaft with attached parts, but also results in long operational lags . Long-term maintenance costs and downtime are significantly reduced after upgrading to longer-life TIMKEN® split-mounted cylindrical roller bearing units.

In addition, TIMKEN® split cylindrical roller bearing units with seats are widely used in bulk material transportation such as belt conveyors, bucket wheel machines, screw conveyors, and in the metallurgical industry.


 

Products and services, two sides of the coin
 

Of course, Timken's long-term trust from customers in the field of application engineering stems not only from the reliable products it provides, but also from the targeted solutions developed with deep industry knowledge and cross-market experience.

In order to provide more comprehensive operation and maintenance services and meet customer needs to a greater extent, our experienced engineers often proactively consult with customers to evaluate and repair loopholes in operations to ensure that even if there is a sudden failure at 2 a.m., the equipment will still be operational. Ability to resume operations with minimal downtime.

In addition, Timken never limits its expertise to product design and manufacturing, but also extends its expertise to field service engineering and employee training. Not only our own technical personnel, but also customer employees can also enjoy professional guidance and training services. Timken has always believed that knowledge drives the world's industrial progress.

"Solve complex engineering problems for customers at all costs." - Based on this philosophy, Timken has always followed the trend of the times for more than 120 years, using its own engineering technology advantages to improve equipment efficiency, ensure stable operation, and continue to serve customers Solve problems.

The road is blocked and long, but the road is coming. We will always uphold the values of integrity, quality, collaboration and excellence, empower thousands of industries with more high-quality products and services, give momentum to promote greater efficiency and high quality, and let industry and society glow with unlimited vitality and vitality.


We could supply these COOPER  split bearings as below