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New bearing can be remanufactured again and again

[Image courtesy of SKF]

 

 

The experts at SKF say they have developed a machine bearing that can be reclad and reused repeatedly, marking a significant advancement in circularity and additive manufacturing. SKF multi-material Infinium bearings can not only have damaged areas repaired, but they can also be reclad with different materials that exhibit different characteristics.

The new Infinium series of bearings has been created for circular use enabled by advanced Laser Metal Deposition (LMD) technology, so a path for repair and reuse has been designed in from the start. SKF says these bearings offer better performance and durability compared to standard ones customized for targeted applications.

"The multi-material bearing can be remanufactured repeatedly, with no limit to the number of times. Damaged areas can be fully removed and fresh material added on the ring. As a result, the bearing can reduce the costs of ownership, extend life, and reduce waste," the company says.

[Image courtesy of SKF]

 

 

The bearings are designed to withstand the most demanding applications depending on the material they are clad (and then reclad) with. For example, applying a stainless steel alloy means a normal bearing can be transformed into a corrosion-resistant one, with the performance of a full solid stainless steel bearing, at a comparatively lower cost.

"For the next generation of bearings, SKF Infinium, we needed to reimagine our product design," says Thomas Frost, president, Independent and Emerging Business, SKF. "Our goal was to keep bearings in use for as long as possible, achieving a more circular business model. This is the first time a bearing solution has been designed for circularity, and it has huge potential to revolutionize how bearings are used."

The bearings have already proven their durability in some of the toughest industries, where testing is still ongoing. Results so far have been promising, with the SKF Infinium bearings already outperforming standard bearings and showing reduced corrosion.

Learn more at skf.com/group/industries/pulp-and-paper/skf-infinium.

Source: SKF

Published February 2025

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