Some technical information about the slewing drive

This system (slewing bearing driven by a worm screw) is a complete assembly and is ready for installation. And furthermore can be very easily integrated into existing applications. 

It consists of a ball bearing or rollers capable of simultaneously withstanding axial, radial and moment loads, a hydraulic or electric motor to generate relative movement between the two rings, and a fully enclosed coating protecting the ring from contamination, damage and loss of lubricant. 

Moreover, with these assemblies the installation of components is avoided and is available in a comprehensive range of several standard sizes. In the following Figure all the components which make up the entire assembly can be discerned.

From among its main advantages the following can be highlighted:

• It is very compact, making it suitable for installations requiring space saving.

• Having a very high load capacity in a very compact design.

• Having a long service life.

• Having low maintenance costs.

• Are protected thanks to its housing.

They are furthermore used worldwide in:

• Vehicle and crane systems.

• Rotation of accessories such as excavators, pliers and forklifts.

• Equipment management (automation systems).

• Loading and unloading devices.

• Positioning Systems.

The slewing bearing movement is delivered through a hydraulic or electric motor. On the market one can find hydraulic motors which can be assembled without any difficulty whatsoever that furthermore comply with industry standards, which saves considerable time. However, for electric motors certain device adapters are necessary. 

The housing of the worm screw is designed as a welded or cast component and which is tailored to the size of the system. It is responsible for protecting the system from contamination, damage and loss of lubricant, which ensures a smoother operation and longer service life. One of its features is that it can be coated with a primer.

As regards the sealing, sealing polymers which protect the system from dirt, dust and the sprayed water are supplied. 

Furthermore, if required in humid and really dirty environments, the system protects itself by means of labyrinth seals preassembled onto the mounting structure. The performance and reliability of the system depend to a greater extent in the prevention of the entry of contaminants into the unit. In this regard, power washing to clean the system should not be carried out due to the fact that the water spray could exceed the sealing.

The worm screws can be used in a temperature range between -20C° and 70C°.

To ensure an optimal operation and a long service life, appropriate and regular lubrication is required. Grease is conducive to better functioning, less wear and tear, reduction of noise during operation, longer service life and less heating up. 

Greasing should be carried out at regular intervals, depending on frequency of use and ambient operating conditions, using a grease compatible with the sealing material. 

Particular attention should be given so as to ensure that the types of lubricating grease which are initially specified, are used throughout the entire service life of the unit, and if another type of grease is wished to be used, it must be verified that the grease is compatible with grease used initially. Furthermore, it is recommended carry out a re-greasing regularly during the operation, and after a long period of inactivity or after cleaning.For lubricants which have aged but have not been used; if after three years the grease has not yet been used, it should be replaced. Greases must not be mixed with different thickeners and base oils. The manufacturer must always ensure that the different types of grease can be mixed. 

These systems should not be cleaned using power wash equipment. During a power wash a large quantity of pressurised water can enter into the system, which cannot be removed nor with an excessive lubrication; this will considerably reduce the useful service life of the worm screw.

View more about slewing drive: https://en.u-transmission.com