The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is adopting the SKF life theory in ISO 281. This follows the adoption of the SKF life theory in Germany by DIN as DIN ISO 281, Beiblatt 1 & 4, in 2004.

This decision comes after six years of consider-ation and validation by various ISO committees. The final draft has been voted and the new ISO standard is issued early this year.

SKF’s life theory was developed during the 1980s by S. Ioannides and T. Harris and has been revised during the years as a result of more knowledge, testing and research by SKF. The theory introduces for the first time the presence of a fatigue limit as a major factor affecting bearing life. Further work has recognized in quantifiable terms the detrimental effects of lubrication and contamination on bearing life.

The new ISO Standard is expressed as a new formula that takes into account the effects of a fatigue limit, lubrication and contamination according to the principles laid out in the SKF life theory and subsequent SKF publications.

The first ISO Standard for bearing life, issued in 1962, also adopted the SKF formulas and calculation for life theory in place at that time. The work was performed by SKF’s Arvid Palmgren and Gustaf Lundberg of Chalmers University in Sweden.

Commenting on the news, SKF CEO Tom Johnstone says, “SKF has once again set the standard in the bearing industry, after 100 years of oper-ation. It is a true testament to our vision and practice in being a ‘knowledge engineering company.’ The new ISO 281 Standard demonstrates quite clearly that SKF is undoubtedly the bearing technology and knowledge leader.”