SKF to supply bearings for world’s tallest observation wheel

SKF is to supply two giant bearings for the Las Vegas High Roller, the world's tallest observation wheel.

The custom-designed spherical roller bearings for the hub of the 550ft tall wheel are the largest ever produced at the company's manufacturing facility in Gothenburg, Sweden. Each weighs approximately 8,800kg - with a 2,300mm outer diameter, 1,600mm inner diameter, and a width of 630mm. Each of the wheel's 28 cabins revolves independently and when built will accommodate up to 40 people. "We are really proud to supply the High Roller because it represents some of the largest bearings we have produced," said Tom Johnstone, SKF oresident and ceo. "By combining our technical knowledge across our platforms with the extensive experience from many specialised industries we are able to provide a solution for this fantastic project." The Las Vegas High Roller is the centrepiece of The LINQ, a planned $550million, open air retail, dining and entertainment district situated between Imperial Palace and Flamingo Las Vegas.