Bearing Technology Advancement as Part of Industrial Progress

Rolling bearings of standardized dimensions have proven to be reliable, long-lived structural components in all types of industry. Improved production methods and progressing knowledge in the fields of steel melting and heat treatment of rolling bearing steel resulted in a steady increase of the capacity of rolling bearings. This development is also reflected by the higher load ratings published recently. The new and advanced development of entire bearing series as well as the development of special bearings made to specifications are of equal importance. Such specially designed bearings opened up many modern and advanced fields of application, for example in space exploration and offshore technology. It can be said that, to date, the rolling bearing technology has fulfilled all requirements. In many cases the use of rolling bearings has resulted in economical overall designs and constructions. A number of examples will show how the development of rolling bearings supports industrial progress.