Ball bearing boosts fuel economy in hybrid vehicles
A new type of ball bearing has been developed that is said to enable ultra high speed rotation by greatly reducing friction.
NSK says the device will contribute to better fuel economy in next generation hybrid vehicles by facilitating ultra high speed rotation in motors and power generators.
The bearings specialist also claims it delivers extreme high speed rotation over 30,000 revolutions per minute, 50% faster than conventional bearings.
"The product facilitates miniaturisation of next generation hybrid systems while enabling these high speeds in drive motors and power generators," said the company. "Optimised ball diameter and groove dimensions inside the bearing module control friction and heat even under ultra high speed rotation, preventing seizing.
"Cage vibration is dampened by adjusting the gap between the cage, balls and inner ring, thereby reducing wear at contact points."
