Slewing Ring Bearing Application in Engineering Ships

What is Slewing ring bearing?

A slewing ring bearing, also known as a turntable bearing or slewing bearing, is a large, rotatable bearing that can support and transmit heavy loads. It is designed to handle axial, radial, and moment loads simultaneously, allowing for smooth movement and rotation while withstanding heavy weight.

Slewing ring bearings are commonly found in ship cranes, play a crucial role in allowing for 360-degree rotation by serving as a connection between the upper structure and the undercarriage. Due to the significant load demands of ship cranes, three-row roller slewing rings are preferred for their superior performance in comparison to other slewing ring structures. These slewing rings usually have a diameter exceeding 1 meter and are equipped with internal gears.

Slewing Ring Bearings Application in Engineering Ships

Engineering ships, also known as workboats, are specialized vessels designed for various offshore construction, maintenance and repair tasks. One of the essential components in these ships is the slewing ring bearing, which enables smooth and efficient operation.

Key Uses of Slewing Ring Bearings in Engineering Ships

1. Crane Operations

Slewing ring bearings are a critical component of the shipboard cranes used for loading and unloading equipment, materials, and subsea structures. The bearing enables the crane's boom to rotate smoothly, horizontally, and vertically while handling heavy loads.

2. ROV Handling Systems

Remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) are used for various underwater tasks, such as inspection, maintenance, and repair of subsea structures. Slewing ring bearings are used in ROV handling systems, enabling the launch and retrieval of ROVs to and from the water efficiently and safely.

3. Deck Equipment and Winches

Slewing ring bearings are used in various deck equipment, such as mooring winches, anchor handling systems, and capstans. The bearing ensures smooth rotation and operation while handling high loads and dynamic forces.

4. Helideck Operations

In some engineering ships, a helideck is present for helicopter landing and take-off. Slewing ring bearings are used in helideck handling systems, ensuring smooth operation and precise positioning of the equipment.

5. Drilling and Pile Driving Equipment

Engineering ships engaged in drilling and pile-driving operations also feature slewing ring bearings. These bearings enable smooth rotation and precise positioning for drilling rig machinery, pile-driving hammers, and other equipment.

Advantages of Using Slewing Ring Bearings

• High load capacity: Slewing ring bearings are designed to handle high axial, radial, and moment loads, making them perfect for large-scale offshore operations.

• Low maintenance: These bearings have a long service life and require minimal maintenance, reducing downtime and operational costs.

• Compact design: Slewing ring bearings have a low-profile design, saving space on engineering ships, and allowing for more equipment and systems.

• Versatile: They can accommodate various rotational movements, making them suitable for numerous marine and offshore applications.

In conclusion, slewing ring bearings play a crucial role in the efficiency, reliability, and safety of engineering ship operations. Their use in various systems, such as cranes, ROVs, deck equipment, and drilling machinery, demonstrates the versatility and robustness of these essential components.

How does the slewing ring used in engineering ships work?

A slewing ring consists of the following primary components:

• Inner Ring: Connected to the lower or inner structure, typically featuring gear teeth for driving motion.

• Outer Ring: Connected to the upper or outer structure, with gear teeth on its inner or outer diameter depending on the application.

• Rolling Elements: Bearings (ball or roller type) are placed between the inner and outer rings, facilitating smooth rotational movement.

• Raceway: Curved grooves on the inner and outer rings where the rolling elements are positioned.

• Cage or Spacers: Keep the rolling elements evenly distributed in the raceway.

• Seals: Protect the bearing components from dust, dirt, and moisture, ensuring longevity.

In engineering ships, slewing rings are used in various applications, such as cranes, excavators, and positioning systems. When the drive mechanism (e.g., a motor or hydraulic system) provides torque to the inner or outer ring, it causes the rolling elements to roll along the raceways and thus enable rotation between the two connected structures.

Advantages of Slewing Rings in Engineering Ships

• Load-bearing capability: Slewing rings can handle heavy loads in multiple directions simultaneously, making them suitable for marine applications where forces can change rapidly.

• Compact design: Slewing bearings can simplify the overall design and reduce the size of the rotating elements, optimizing space usage.

• Robust and reliable: Slewing rings are engineered to withstand shock loads, vibrations, and harsh operating conditions typically encountered in marine environments.

• Maintenance-friendly: Regular inspections and lubrication can help prolong the lifespan of slewing rings, while their modular design allows for easy replacement if necessary.

In summary, slewing rings play a vital role in engineering ships by enabling smooth, controlled rotation between two structures while accommodating heavy loads. They offer numerous advantages due to their load-bearing capabilities, compact design, and robustness, making them an essential component in marine applications.

A slewing ring, also known as a slewing bearing or turntable bearing, is a crucial component used in engineering ships and various other heavy machinery. Its primary function is to accommodate heavy axial, radial, and moment loads while allowing rotational movement between two structures.

What types of slewing rings are used in engineering ships?

In engineering ships, various types of slewing rings are employed to facilitate rotations and ensure efficient operations. They can be found in cranes, winches, excavators, and other machinery. Key types of slewing rings used in engineering ships include:

1. Four Point Contact Ball Slewing Bearing: These slewing rings have a single row of ball bearings and are designed for moderate axial, radial, and tilting moment loads. They are generally compact and lightweight, making them suitable for applications with limited space.

2. Double Row Ball Slewing Bearings: This type consists of two rows of ball bearings arranged in parallel. It can handle larger loads in multiple directions and is typically used in heavy machinery or applications with significant loading requirements.

3. Cross Cylindrical Roller Slewing Bearing: Cross roller slewing rings have cylindrical rollers arranged in a cross pattern, with alternating rollers at right angles to each other. This design allows for higher load-carrying capacity and offers good rigidity. These bearings are commonly employed in shipboard cranes and equipment that require precise positioning.

4. Three Row Cylindrical Roller Slewing Bearing: These are the most robust and suitable for heavy-duty applications. They feature three rows of cylindrical rollers and can carry the highest load capacity of all the slewing ring varieties. They are ideal for large-scale, heavy-duty machinery used on engineering ships.

5. Single-row ball and roller combination slewing ring: This type combines the features of single-row ball and roller slewing rings. The design includes alternating ball and roller bearings in a single raceway, allowing for increased load-carrying capacity while maintaining a compact design. These rings are suited for applications with combined loads and limited space.

Each type of slewing ring has unique qualities that make them well-suited to specific applications and load requirements on engineering ships.

Conclusion

A slewing ring, also known as a slewing bearing or turntable bearing, is a crucial component used in engineering ships and various other heavy machinery. Its primary function is to accommodate heavy axial, radial, and moment loads while allowing rotational movement between two structures.

LTZC Bearing Company is a professional manufacturer of standard and non-standard slewing bearings. As an industry expert, we pride ourselves on our strict quality control system, which is implemented in our factory. Our commitment to quality excellence is demonstrated by our achievement of the ISO9001:2008 Quality System Certification, as well as obtaining certificates from Bureau Veritas and the China Classification Society.

The cornerstone of our manufacturing process is our advanced heat treatment technology, which effectively enhances the quality and lifespan of our products. To maintain high standards of quality, we have designed a comprehensive inspection system that incorporates self-inspection, in-process quality control, and final inspection. This system ensures traceability and compliance with ISO9001:2008 quality standards throughout each stage of production. With LTZC Bearing, you can trust that you are receiving exceptional products and services.