May 2, 2007
Development of High-Temperature Long-Life Ball Bearing for Alternators
[ To meet the requirements of increased power generation in passenger vehicles: Heat resistance properties are improved by 50%,
Allowing continuous operation at 180°C. ]
NTN Bearing Corporation has developed a sealed, deep-groove, ball bearing enabling continuous operation at 180°C for the alternator application.
Today, more and more electrical equipment is being used to enhance comfort and safety in passenger vehicles, thus the demand for power generation from the alternator is also increasing. As a result, bearing temperatures in the alternators are projected to increase to 180°C from the common 150°C limit of current designs. In response, the bearing designs must be enhanced to meet the rising requirements for long life at high temperature. Additionally, these bearings must not generate brittle flaking, which has occasionally been observed in alternator bearings over the past 10-15 years.
NTN's latest bearing development adopts a new environmentally-friendly grease whose base oil, thickener, and additives have been reviewed and optimized. This bearing also includes an improved heat treatment method for the inner and outer rings. Through this technical approach, the bearing heat resistance property is enhanced by 50% and the anti-brittle flaking property is more than doubled. In addition, the cage and seal designs utilize high performance materials with superior temperature stability making the possibility of continuous bearing operation at 180°C a reality.
NTN is presenting this new product to the global market as a necessary contribution to the development of high-powered alternators in advance of expected market demand for increased power generation from passenger vehicles.
[ Features of the New Product ]
| a. | Longer Life at High Temperature: | |
| Bearing life at 180°C is improved by 50% or more ( in comparison with the conventional bearing ) | ||
| b. | Excellent Anti-Brittle Flaking Property: | |
| Brittle flaking life is more than doubled ( in comparison with the conventional bearing ) | ||
[ Product photo ]
New Products
Left: Alternator Front-Side Bearing (6303)
Right: Alternator Rear-Side Bearing (6202)
Positions of New Products In an Alternator
[ Sales Points ]
[ Technical Approach ]
