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18/08/2010
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SKF has helped the team at Tarmac's asphalt site in Rochford to increase machine uptime and reliability, after specifying more efficient, robust and cost effective bearings for an extremely demanding bucket elevator application.
 Sealed spherical roller bearings and an innovative three-barrier approach, developed by SKF authorised distributor Brammer, provided the solution.
They have eliminated maintenance, increased MTBR (mean time between repairs) by 16 months and are providing double the service life of the earlier bearings, according to a spokesperson from Tarmac Rochford.
Just as important, they are also delivering cost savings of nearly £2,000 for each bearing system, while allowing Tarmac to realise annual savings of more than £1,000 in increased production, through the prevention of downtime.
The problem centred on Tarmac Rochford's particularly high levels of heat, dust, debris and other abrasive contaminants – meaning that the split bearings previously used were yielding a service life of only eight months.
"SKF offered exceptional customer service. It was the only company where someone came to our site to help us solve our problems despite the fact that we weren't already using SKF bearings. They were working for the industry not just for a sale," comments the Tarmac spokesperson.
SKF makes the point that, despite the fact that split bearings are meant to be easy to fit, installation of the old units was complex and time consuming in comparison with the larger SKF sealed bearings.
They can be fitted quickly and simply using a sleeve and locknut, which eliminates the need for a lock washer. It also has a machined side face to keep the bearing straight on the shaft and reduce vibrations. Incremental markings every 15° on the locknut also allow users to measure the tightening angle and ensures correct internal bearing clearance during installation.
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Author
Brian Tinham
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