Choosing a Slew Ring Bearing for Your Crane

Slewing rings are one of the most important components of cranes. They are used for a variety of purposes, including lifting and transferring heavy objects and for allowing the crane to rotate freely. However, slew rings can suffer from failures that put operators at risk. Generally, slew ring bearings are installed in cranes for industrial and commercial applications.

Cranes have to endure a lot of wear and tear. To maximize performance, it is imperative to inspect the crane regularly. Some of the parts that should be checked include the seals, bolts, and the slew ring bearing. Also, lubrication should be maintained frequently to avoid early wear.

The slew ring is composed of an inner ring and an outer ring. In most cases, the inner ring is affixed to the turning object via an adapter plate. Typically, the bearing is manufactured in a ball or roller style. Depending on the application, the slewing ring bearing can handle radial, tilting moment, or thrust loads. It is a type of bearing that is typically used to support heavy loads and withstand harsh cycles.

Typical slewing ring bearings are manufactured to handle very high radial loads. In order to maximize the durability of slew ring bearings, the design must simultaneously accommodate a wide range of load spectrums. Therefore, slewing ring bearings are available in non-segmented raceway diameters, as well as segmented sizes. A slew ring can be horizontally or vertically mounted. While a vertically mounted slewing ring bears loads that can be shifted over a large distance, a horizontally mounted slewing ring can be used to support infinite swinging of attachments.

Because slew ring bearings are used to support and support large loads, it is essential to ensure proper installation. This is particularly true for bearings that are large in diameter. Overloading is the most common cause of slew ring failure. Failure can also occur if the bearing is improperly lubricated, or if the bearing has been contaminated.

When choosing a slewing ring bearing, make sure to purchase a quality product. Often, a quality product will have a better lubrication system, as well as a wider selection of sizes. If you are in need of a slewing ring, consider a manufacturer that offers a large selection of different styles, from linear bushings to pneumatic tables. You can also check with a 3rd party inspection organization, such as LR, BV, or CCS.

Having a central lubrication system can also help to increase the longevity of a slew ring. This is because it can provide easier lubrication. Lubrication must be introduced at least every eight hours for a slewing ring that is operating at a slow speed, and every 100 hours for a crane that is rotating at a fast speed.

Regular maintenance is also necessary to ensure that a slewing ring is functioning properly. Usually, the slew ring is lubricated with high-quality grease. But, over time, the grease tends to dry out and form condensation. It is best to re-introduce the lubricant every six months or so.