Sensor technology integrated into spindle bearings

This means machine manufacturers can now offer their customers a highly effective and easy-to-use device for increasing machine availability, productivity and quality. Using this system will reduce the frequency of spindle failures while simultaneously extending the operating life of the spindles.

The completely new sensor system, which has been developed specifically for this application, measures the displacement of the spindle shaft under load in high resolution and in five spatial directions – three translational and two rotary. This, combined with the matching expertise in rolling bearings, makes the kinematic conditions in the bearing and thus the operation-related parameters such as pressure, spin/roll ratio and cage pocket clearance, to be clearly calculated.