How to install slewing bearing correctly?

Slewing bearing, sometimes referred to as a slewing ring or turntable bearing, is a vital machine component designed to support large, slowly rotating or oscillating loads. These bearings are commonly found in applications like horizontal platforms, cranes, swing yarders, and wind turbines.Slewing bearings consist of two concentric rings, and one of these rings may be equipped with a gear. They are responsible for absorbing axial and radial forces as well as tilting moments, effectively transferring them to the adjacent machine structures. Depending on the design, slewing bearings can be manufactured with internal gears, external gears, or without any gearing.Slewing bearings offer several advantages over conventional pivot systems, such as: a compact assembly, a hollow core, easy access to superstructures of the rotating parts, and synthetic rubber seals for added protection.

As the demand for industrial products such as automation equipment, industrial robots, and filling machines continues to grow, the need for slewing bearings has surged due to their significant role in these applications. However, many users lack the knowledge on how to correctly install slewing bearings. Proper installation is crucial for achieving optimal performance and prolonging the service life of slewing bearings. To address this issue, LTZC Slewing Bearing manufacturer, with 20 years of experience in the production of slewing bearings, offers the following installation guide. Below are the steps to correctly install slewing bearings:

1. Preparation:

• Thoroughly inspect the slewing bearing for any signs of damage or wear.

• Review the manufacturer's installation instructions and specifications.

• Gather all necessary tools and equipment, such as torque wrenches, lifting gear, and dial indicators.

2. Clean surface areas:

• Clean both the bearing seatings on the mounting structure and the mounting surfaces of the bearing.

• Ensure the surfaces are free of oil, grease, dirt, and other contaminants.

3. Check alignment and marking:

• Make sure the alignment marks on the bearing ring and the structure are visible and aligned.

• Verify the mounting surfaces are parallel, flat, and free of burrs or sharp edges.

4. Lubricate:

• Apply a thin layer of grease or mounting paste to the contact surfaces and gear teeth (if applicable).

5. Installation:

• Place the slewing bearing in the correct orientation on the mounting surface.

• Align the bolt holes and ensure any gear teeth mesh (if applicable).

• Use lifting gear to place the bearing properly without excessive force or strain, ensuring it is correctly aligned with mounting holes.

6. Bolt tightening:

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for bolt grade, size, and torque settings.

• Install bolts in the order specified by the manufacturer, often tightening them in a star pattern for even distribution of force.

• Use a calibrated torque wrench for precise tightening to the specified torque.

7. Install adjacent parts:

• With the bearing secure and installed, attach any adjacent components (pins, gear mechanisms, etc.) as per the manufacturer's guidelines.

8. Verify alignment and rotation:

• Ensure proper alignment between the bearing and the structure.

• Rotate the bearing manually to confirm smooth movement without any abnormal noise or resistance.

9. Perform a final inspection:

• Inspect the installed bearing for any defects and verify if all bolts are tightened to the correct torque.

• Make sure all components are properly installed, aligned, and rotate freely.

10. Document the installation:

• Record and document the installation process, torque values, date, and any other relevant information for future reference.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance and inspection play a crucial role in prolonging the service life of slewing bearings. It is important to always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and enlist the help of professionals if any doubts arise during the installation process. If you have any additional inquiries about slewing bearings, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us. At LTZC, we pride ourselves on not only supplying high-quality slewing bearings, but also offering comprehensive solutions tailored to your needs!