Case Study: Asymmetric Main Shaft Bearing

The wind industry has historically relied on traditional spherical roller main shaft bearings in wind turbines. These spherical roller bearings are typically designed with symmetrical geometries and provide support for the main shaft that connects the wind turbine rotor to the gearbox. While traditional main shaft bearings have been effective in providing support for wind turbine rotors, they do have limitations: they do not perform as designed when subjected to high thrust loads.  This causes a load imbalance that can accelerate damage to the downwind race, leading to premature failure.

Asymmetric main shaft bearings were designed to address these challenges by providing the ability to handle both thrust and radial loads while maintaining the ability to misalign. Asymmetric bearings result in improved load distribution and better resistance to wear and damage. 

Midpoint Bearing partnered with Schaeffler in 2013 to introduce asymmetric main shaft bearings to the wind market. These bearings are proven to provide longer application life than conventional symmetrical designs.