EnCompass – SKF Field Performance Programme

One might think that two bearings of the same size with the same dynamic load rating should perform equally well in a given application. In reality, they often do not.

The reason? Bearing performance under actual operating conditions is impacted by not only the dynamic load rating (C), but far more by the bearing’s inherent design and quality: everything from the surface finish of the raceways to the effectiveness of sealing and lubrication. The SKF EnCompass Field Performance Programme addresses this issue. By focusing on bearing design optimisation and more detailed analysis of the factors influencing bearing service life, the programme will help to meet real-world application conditions. As part of this programme, SKF is introducing new products, new knowledge and software tools to give you a field advantage – whatever your application.

New bearing life model

Understanding and addressing the factors that cause bearing failure, is critical to designing bearings that can perform as expected under field conditions. SKF has successfully integrated this knowledge into a new rolling bearing life calculation, called the SKF Generalised Bearing Life Model which includes more real life parameters such as lubrication, contamination and surface distress. By encompassing more parameters, the new model provides insight into the calculation of bearing rating life. The result is a significantly improved guide for selecting bearings for optimum reliability and productivity in the field.

New SKF calculation tools

As part of the SKF EnCompass programme, SKF is also introducing new advanced calculation tools, called SimPro Quick and SimPro Expert which will be launched to our customers in late 2016. With these proprietary software programs, customers can select bearings and fine-tune machine designs for optimal field performance based on their requirements. Both software tools enable engineers to consider the shaft, housing, bearings, external forces and gear loads.

Products in SKF field performance programme

Examples of products developed as a part of the field performance program are: The SKF upgraded explorer for self-aligning roller bearings, the new sealed spherical roller bearings, the new taconite seal and the ConCentra roller bearing units

Upgraded SKF Explorer self-aligning bearings have up to twice the bearing service life in harsh environments compared to the previous design. By combining material, design and manufacturing improvements for self-aligning roller bearings, SKF Engineers have maximised the effect of lubrication and minimised the effects of friction, wear and contamination significantly increasing wear resistance These benefits are important for field performance as poor lubrication and contamination are responsible for approximately 50 percent of premature bearing failures.

Sealed SKF Explorer spherical roller bearings can significantly increase bearing service life in contaminated environments. These bearings are pre-lubricated with highly effective contact seals. The seals protect the bearing and lubricant from contaminants that might otherwise cause premature bearing failure. In many applications, these bearings can be considered lubricated for the life of the bearing. By eliminating or extending re-lubrication intervals, these bearings can significantly reduce the cost to purchase, apply and dispose of grease. Sealed spherical roller bearings should be taken into consideration in all greased applications.

SKF ConCentra roller bearing units are robust, readyto-mount units with reliable locking technology that are assembled, lubricated and sealed at the factory ready for instant use to avoid contamination during installation in the field. Designed to optimise the performance and maximise the service life of the SKF Explorer series 222 spherical roller bearings used in them, they are an excellent alternative to adapter sleeve-mounted bearings in split housings.

The SKF field performance program focuses on driving innovative technology and solutions that help our customers be more successful and sustainable, aligning with the SKF Life Cycle Management approach to reducing the total cost of ownership and SKF BeyondZero solutions to reduce environmental impact.

For information email: customerservice.nz@skf.com or visit our website www.skf.com