Power Transmission Engineering Magazine
www.powertransmission.com/articles/3511

Timken Targets Wind with Several Product Introductions at Windpower 2010

May 27, 2010

Introducing several new product developments at the Windpower 2010 show in Dallas, The Timken Company is leveraging investments made during the recession to expand its wind power offering and capacity domestically and internationally.

Among the new products highlighted at Windpower is the Timken Wear-Resistant Bearings, in cylindrical or spherical. The bearing technology extends predicted life up to three times longer than standard cylindrical or spherical bearings, according to the company's press release. With up to 15 percent less torque, Timken's wear-resistant bearings resist damages that include smearing, scuffing, false brinelling and micropitting.

Also highlighted at the show is the UltraWind Tapered Roller Bearing (pictured), which is certified by Germanisher Lloyd with the highest rating in the industry. The main-shaft, ultra large-bore bearing has a simplified drivetrain design that intends to save capital-equipment costs.

The Wind Energy Lubrication System precisely and evenly directs fresh grease to bearing inlets while actively purging old lubricant with a centralized lubrication delivery device that works with either series progressive or injector-based lubricant delivery methods.

Three new wind seals from Timken include the Eco Turn Labyrinth Seal, a non-contacting design that prevents grease migration and contaminants. It is suited for Timken's low pressure lubrication system. The Elastomer Wind Seal is engineered with a flexible sealing lip to handle bearing deflections and reduce friction and cone wear. The PTFE Wind Energy Seal provides chemical inertness and low friction to help maximize performance.

The Middle Frequency Induction Heater is designed to provide a simple and safe approach to assembly and disassembly of large wind.

Other products on display at Windpower include the Planet Pac and integrated Flexpin Bearings, Clean Timken Steel, Online Intelligence System and Timken's proprietary Syber Advanced Wind System Analysis.

Timken also used the Windpower show to report expanded facilities in Asheboro, N.C., Tyger River, S.C. and a new plant in Xiangtan, China.

"From engineering investment to our manufacturing and service capabilities in every part of the world, Timken is in the best position to deliver exceptional value and lifelong support to customers who are developing the next generation megawatt-class turbines," said Christopher Coughlin, president of Timken's Process Industries Segment.