May 30, 2006

NTN Develops "High-Sealing, Low-Torque Hub Bearings"
for Passenger Cars

[Optimizes seal material and shape to achieve both high sealing and low torque]

NTN Corporation (NTN) has developed "high-sealing, low-torque hub bearings" that meet the demand for lower fuel consumption in automobiles and are maintenance free.

Reducing the rotation torque (rotation resistance) of hub bearings is effective for reducing fuel consumption. Since half the rotational torque is accounted for by the seal sliding resistance, it is desirable to reduce seal sliding resistance. However, reducing the seal sliding resistance lowers the sealing effectiveness. The issue is trying to reduce torque while at the same time maintaining robust sealing.

By (1) Using low-torque rubber materials, (2) Reducing torque with a non-contact radial lip structure, and (3) Improving the ability to withstand muddy water with double side lips, NTN while maintaining the previous seal space, doubled the hub bearing sealing (ability to withstand muddy water) and reduced the rotation torque 15% (30% reduction for the seal alone).

NTN is developing markets globally for these newly developed "high-sealing, low-torque hub bearings", as products that contribute to improved automotive reliability and greater fuel economy.

[Features]

Optimizes seal material and shape to achieve both high sealing and low torque in the same occupational space as previous seals!
[Sealing]	Ability to withstand muddy water: Double
[Lower torque]	Rotation torque reduced 15% (Seal alone 30% reduction)

[Applications]

Hub bearings for passenger cars

[Photograph]

[Means of attainment]