SKF eDrive Ball Bearings boost electric and hybrid mileage

Oct. 15, 2012 - PRLog -- SKF has launched a new range of energy efficient ball bearings that can increase mileage for electric and hybrid vehicles.  Addressing the specific requirements of high power density electric motors for electric and hybrid vehicles, SKF eDrive Ball Bearings enable lower levels of friction and heat dissipation, supporting higher electric motor efficiency and operating speeds.

This solution provided by SKF, the knowledge engineering company, will allow electric motor and E-powertrain manufacturers to improve the efficiency, power density and battery reliability of motors.  Similarly, the manufacturers of electric and hybrid vehicles can offer their customers increased mileage, while battery lifetime is extended by a reduction in the number of charging cycles.  For example, in a typical electric vehicle, an extra 1% of mileage can be gained by using a set of optimised SKF bearings and seals on the electric traction motor and gearbox compared to conventional alternatives.

SKF eDrive Ball Bearings benefit from a number of innovative design features, including optimised internal geometry, ultra-low friction sealing and a patented, energy efficient polymer cage.  These features enable higher operating speeds with low self-heating and low friction torque, and no variation of friction torque either during the product’s lifetime or under axial loading conditions.  The bearings also use validated, long life, wide temperature grease to enable optimum performance in high speed applications.  

SKF eDrive Ball Bearings can also be integrated with the SKF Rotor Positioning Sensor-Bearing Unit to further enhance electric motor efficiency.  The SKF Rotor Positioning Sensor-Bearing Unit, which has recently been enhanced for traction motors, can improve energy recovery during braking, reduce electric noise, and ultimately enable a total cost reduction.  The SKF Rotor Positioning Sensor-Bearing Unit also offers high resistance to vibration, severe magnetic field disturbances, and continuous high temperatures up to 150°C.  



For further information, please contact: Phil Burge, Communication Manager, SKF (U.K.) Limited
T: +44 (0)1582 496433   M: +44 (0)7770 647591   phil.burge@skf.com

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SKF is a leading global supplier of bearings, seals, mechatronics, lubrication systems and services which include technical support, maintenance and reliability services, engineering consulting and training. SKF is represented in more than 130 countries and has 15,000 distributor locations worldwide. Annual sales in 2011 were SEK 66,216 million and the number of employees was 46,039. www.skf.co.uk