During the past decade, the wind energy sector has undergone rapid change and transformation. According to ures released by the European Wind Energy Association, global installed wind capacity has increased more than tenfold since 1994: from 3,531 megawatts to 39,500 megawatts. The installed capacity in Europe alone is expected to reach 75,000 megawatts by 2010.

SKF has long been associated with bearing design and applications for the wind power market, and new products were presented at the WindEnergy 2004 fair in Hamburg, Germany, in May.

The SKF torque bearing is currently the largest serial-produced rolling bearing for rotor support in multi-megawatt wind turbines. Based on a double-row taper roller bearing, the SKF torque bearing has an outer diameter of 2,330 millimetres and can support tilting movements in addition to the usual radial and axial loads. This makes it possible for the rotor to be supported with one single bearing.

SKF Coupling Systems has developed a new type of hydraulic coupling that is much less time-consuming than the frequently used mechanical couplings. The characteristic features of this friction-locked connection are simple mounting and dismounting, and high torque transmission capability.

SKF’s slotted HMS lock nuts enable simple yet effective and precise axial location of large bearings and other large components onto a shaft. New to the SKF range, the lock nuts have already been used successfully in wind turbines. The special construction of the lock nuts not only facilitates mounting, but also simplifies construction.