What type of slew beairng can be used on excavator?
Excavators typically use a type of slew bearing called a "four-point contact ball bearing" or a "crossed roller bearing" to assist in the rotation of the upper structure (cab and boom). Both of these bearing types are designed to handle axial, radial, and tilting moment loads, which are crucial for the various loads an excavator experiences during digging, lifting, and slewing operations.
Four-Point Contact Ball Bearing: This type of slew bearing features a unique ball raceway configuration that allows each ball to contact the raceway at four points instead of the traditional two points, providing increased load and moment carrying capacity. The four-point contact ball bearing provides smooth rolling motion, ease of mounting, and can handle combined loads effectively. This design is more common in lighter-duty to medium-duty excavators.
Crossed Roller Bearing: Crossed roller bearings have cylindrical rolling elements (rollers) positioned at right angles to each other within the bearing. This arrangement allows for relatively higher load carrying capacities and increased stiffness due to the increased contact area between the rollers and bearing raceways. They also offer better moment capacity and provide smooth, controlled rotation. Crossed roller bearings are often used in heavy-duty excavators due to their robustness and capacity to withstand higher loads and more extreme operating conditions.
When selecting a slew bearing for an excavator, consider factors such as load capacity, operating conditions, service life, and compatibility with the excavator's design. Additionally, ensure the chosen bearing meets the necessary safety requirements, and perform regular maintenance and inspection to prolong service life and maintain optimal performance.