Ball bearing improvements cut torque, energy consumption

NSK says a series of developments in the design and manufacture of bearings have resulted in its standard deep groove ball bearings demonstrating a torque saving of up to 47% for high speed domestic appliances, compared to conventional bearings of the same size. This will also reduce energy consumption.

Developments in tribology and material technology, as well as advancements in steel cleanliness, have improved steel fatigue life. In addition, advancements have been made in the heat treatment process to improve hardness and wear resistance.

The ball bearing raceway surface finish and geometry has also been redesigned to reduce internal friction, reducing power consumption, operating noise levels, heat generation and wear.