North American Windpower: SKF Rolls Out New Radial Shaft Seals For Wind Turbines

in News Departments > Products & Technologies

by NAW Staff on Wednesday 20 June 2012

SKF - a supplier of bearings, seals, mechatronics, lubrication systems and services to the wind power industry - has introduced its reinforced all-rubber HSS radial shaft seals, which are intended to protect against contaminants and extend the service life of large bearings in wind turbine drivetrains.

The seals are designed for easy installation or up-tower replacement during planned maintenance procedures, SKF explains, adding that their minimal space requirements allow for smaller and lighter bearing housings, potentially reducing turbine weight.

The HSS seals integrate SKF Duratemp hydrogenated nitrile rubber, which provides high static sealing performance with an ability to accommodate imperfections in the mating housing surface, according to SKF. A standard grade is used for the sealing lip, while the seal body contacting the housing bore is made from a harder grade for improved stability during installation and in operation.

The seals are manufactured slightly oversized relative to the housing bore diameter and depth, and are clamped in the housing bore by a cover plate to further enhance stability and performance, the company adds.

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