Slew Bearing

What is four contact ball slew bearing?

A Four-point Contact Ball Slew Bearing is a type of slewing bearing designed to manage different types of loads simultaneously in a compact and efficient structure. It is called "four-point contact" because each ball within the bearing contacts the raceways at four distinct points. This configuration allows the bearing to support axial loads in both directions, radial loads, and tilting moment loads, making them suitable for various applications where precise rotation and positioning are required under heavy loads.

Four-point contact ball bearing details

• Range of external diameter: 100 mm to 15000 mm

• Ring material: 42CrMo / 50Mn/ C45

• Ball/roller material: GCr15

• Cage material: steel 20 or ZL102 cast aluminum alloy

• Spacer material: nylon 6 / nylon 66

• Quenching hardness of raceway: HRC55-62

• Tooth type: no gear, internal gear, external gear

Features of four contact ball slew bearing

Compact Design: Four-point contact ball slew bearings offer a compact design that can easily be integrated into applications with space limitations while still providing adequate load-carrying capacity.

Load-Carrying Capacity: These bearings are designed to handle various types of loads, including axial, radial, and tilting moment loads, making them particularly versatile for numerous applications.

Raceway Geometry: The unique raceway geometry ensures that the four contact points evenly distribute the load across the bearing surfaces, minimizing stress concentration and wear.

Reduced Friction: The rolling element design helps to minimize friction, allowing for smooth bearing operation, reduced energy consumption, and increased bearing life.

Types of four contact ball slew bearing

Four-point contact ball slew bearings come in multiple types to satisfy the requirements of various applications. While all types feature the unique four-point contact between the balls and raceways, structural differences determine their respective strengths and suitability for specific loads and conditions. The main types of four-point contact ball slew bearings include:

Single-row Four-point Contact Ball Slewing Bearings: The most common type, characterized by a single row of balls between an inner and outer ring. It can accommodate axial loads in both directions, radial loads, and tilting moment loads, making it suitable for a wide range of applications such as cranes, excavators, and aerial work platforms.

Double-row Four-point Contact Ball Slewing Bearings: This type features two parallel rows of balls, offering increased load-carrying capacity without dramatically enlarging the bearing dimensions. Double-row four-point contact ball slew bearings primarily handle axial loads, radial loads, and limited tilting moment loads, and are ideal for applications that require higher load ratings or increased stiffness, such as heavy-duty cranes or lifting equipment.

Crossed Roller and Ball Slewing Bearings: Combining aspects of four-point contact ball slewing bearings with the compactness of crossed roller bearings, this hybrid design benefits from the strengths of both. In these bearings, one or more rows of rollers are replaced by balls, increasing the load-carrying capacity while maintaining a compact design. They are used for applications requiring high rigidity and accuracy, such as precision equipment or robotics.

Four-point Contact Ball Slewing Bearings with Integral Gear: Some four-point contact ball slew bearings incorporate a gear directly on the inner or outer ring, streamlining the design by combining the bearing and gearing in a single component. These bearings provide a more compact solution for applications requiring external gear systems, reducing the weight and space required. Commonly used in applications such as cranes, excavation machinery, or wind turbines, these bearings can be customized to accommodate various gear ratios and configurations.

When choosing a four-point contact ball slew bearing, it's crucial to consider factors such as the type and magnitude of loads, available space, required rigidity and accuracy, and gear requirements. Selecting the right type of four-point contact ball slew bearing will ensure optimal performance and longevity in your specific application.

Applications of Four Contact Ball Slew Bearing

Four-point contact ball slew bearings are used in a wide range of applications, including:

Cranes: In mobile, tower, and overhead cranes, four-point contact ball slew bearings provide smooth rotation and movement under varying load conditions in the boom or jib.

Lifting Equipment: These bearings are employed in various lifting systems, aerial work platforms, and hoists, enabling lift mechanisms to operate smoothly and handle loads efficiently.

Excavators: In heavy machinery like excavators, four-point contact ball slew bearings provide precise rotation and positioning of the boom, enabling controlled movement and operation.

Wind Turbines: These bearings enable pitch and yaw adjustment in wind turbines for optimal alignment with changing wind directions.

Robotics and Automation: In industrial automation and robotics, four-point contact ball slew bearings can offer precise and controlled rotation for robotic arms and manipulators that handle heavy loads.

Price of four contact ball slew bearing

The price of a four-point contact ball slew bearing depends on various factors, such as bearing size, material, load capacity, gear configuration (if applicable), customizations, and the manufacturer's pricing strategy. As a result, it is not possible to provide a definitive price without considering these specific details.

Generally, larger bearings with higher load capacities and more complex designs, such as those with integrated gears, are more expensive than smaller, simpler bearings. The choice of bearing material, such as high-quality steel or customized coatings, can also impact the price.

To get an accurate price for a four-point contact ball slew bearing, it is recommended to contact bearing suppliers or manufacturers with the specific requirements and technical specifications of the bearing you need. They can provide a quote based on the exact bearing you require and any additional features or customizations that may be necessary.

Remember that while price is an essential consideration, it's also crucial to ensure that the chosen slew bearing meets the performance and quality requirements of your specific application to achieve optimal operation and longevity. If you are looking for four contact ball slew bearing and would like to know its price, feel free to get a quote from us.

Four contact ball slew bearing supplier

Zenith-drive is a leading supplier of four-point contact ball slew bearings, offering an extensive range of high-quality bearings for numerous applications. With a customer-centric approach and a strong focus on innovation, Zenith-drive is dedicated to delivering top-notch products and services, ensuring optimal performance and satisfaction for every client. If you are looking for four contact ball slew bearing, feel free to contact us.