Converting from Hydrodynamic Plain Bearings to SKF Rolling Bearings

Converting from Hydrodynamic Plain Bearings to SKF Rolling Bearings: Benefits and Applications

SKF solutions and engineering capabilities enable conversion from hydrodynamic plain bearings to higher-performance rolling-bearing systems that save energy and optimize operating costs.

1. Overview: The Need to Convert to Rolling Bearings

Wooden rollers used to move heavy loads demonstrate a friction-reduction principle known for thousands of years.

Examples of modern tilting-pad radial and thrust bearings.

2. Hydrodynamic Plain Bearings versus Rolling Bearings

Hydrodynamic plain bearings rely on an oil film to separate the rotating shaft from the stationary bearing. They provide good wear resistance and vibration damping but require high oil flow, are vulnerable to wear during frequent starts and stops, make clearance control difficult and consume considerable oil-pumping energy.

Oil-supply system for a compressor using hydrodynamic plain bearings, according to API standards.

Clearances between pump or compressor impellers and the casing determine volumetric losses and affect equipment efficiency.

Rolling bearings position the shaft accurately using an extremely thin lubricant film, commonly 1-3 microns. They minimize lubrication-oil volume and allow very small shaft-end clearances below 50 microns, reducing flow losses and improving operating efficiency.

Rolling bearings and bearing units for combined radial and axial loads.

Comparison of operating friction between hydrodynamic plain bearings and rolling bearings [2].

3. Practical Applications: Automotive, Renewable Energy and Industrial Refrigeration

• Turbochargers and crankshafts: Rolling bearings, especially hybrid ceramic types, reduce friction and improve turbocharger performance in sports cars and high-performance engines.
• Geothermal power plants: Converting a screw expander from plain to rolling bearings improves efficiency and saves millions of kWh annually.
• Chillers and heat pumps: SKF rolling bearings improve efficiency by 3-4% and reduce electricity and maintenance costs, particularly with environmentally considerate refrigerants.

Turbocharger construction using high-performance rolling bearings.

Turbocharger friction-torque measurement: plain bearings in blue and red versus rolling bearings in green [2].

Experimental crankshaft friction-torque comparison: plain versus rolling bearings.

Geothermal power plant conversion from plain to rolling bearings for more efficient green-power generation.

Modern HVAC chiller with a two-stage direct-drive centrifugal compressor.

Comparison of efficiency losses in chillers using rolling and plain bearings.

4. Key Benefits of Converting to SKF Rolling Bearings

5. Ideal Applications

• Pumps, compressors, industrial fans, turbines, refrigeration equipment and renewable-power systems.
• Continuously operating machinery requiring energy savings and reduced maintenance.
• Equipment requiring highly accurate shaft positioning, high speed or heavy load capacity.

6. Conclusion and References

Converting hydrodynamic plain bearings to SKF rolling bearings saves energy, improves efficiency and lowers maintenance and operating costs, supporting sustainable development in modern industry.

View the complete English report: Progress and challenges in rolling bearing technology for compressors in industrial heat pumps