Selecting the right slewing ring for your needs can be a detailed and complex process, but doing it right can significantly enhance the durability and performance of your equipment. When choosing a slewing ring, every detail matters. To help you through this process, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide on what to consider before purchasing a slewing ring.

How to Select a Slewing Bearing

Before starting your search for a slewing ring, it’s crucial to understand the basic requirements of your application. This includes knowing the necessary load capacity, speed, precision, and torque. Once you have these key parameters in place, you can move on to more specific considerations, such as:

1. Evaluate Your Support Structure

It’s easy to assume that your support structure will evenly distribute the load of the slewing ring, but this isn’t always the case. Ensuring that the slewing ring is mounted on a flat, stable surface with adequate support is crucial. Even a slewing ring with a high load capacity cannot perform optimally if mounted on an uneven or weak structure.

Take this opportunity to assess all potential bearing loads, including both dynamic and static loads. It’s important to consider all the forces acting on the bearing and gear, including those caused by weather conditions, assembly and disassembly processes, or impacts from harsh environments.

2. Identify the Necessary Gear Capacity and Mounting Configuration

Some slewing rings are designed without integrated gearing. If you require a slewing ring with built-in gear, it’s essential to determine the gear capacity needed for your application. This calculation should consider how the gear will perform under varying loads, inclines, and stress tests.

Once you know the required gear capacity, the next step is to decide on the most suitable mounting arrangement. Consider factors such as the position of the pinion and gear, as well as the maintenance needs of your bearings and bolts. Slewing bearings are versatile and can accommodate various mounting configurations, so you can customize them to meet your specific needs.

3. Make an Initial Selection of a Slewing Ring

After narrowing down your options, make an initial selection by comparing the operational forces of the bearing with the bearing’s rating curve. It’s important to factor in the service factor (SF) when comparing these values. For a slewing ring to be suitable for your application, its required resultant force should be below the rating curve.

Additionally, the maximum thrust rating of the chosen bearing should be at least three times greater than the highest operational force thrust, regardless of any momentary forces that may occur.

Once these conditions are satisfied, ensure that the selected bearing meets all your design requirements and provides smooth rotation and effective load transfer.

Partner with Experts in Slewing Ring Manufacturing

At SlewMaster Inc., we specialize in providing high-quality slewing rings for various industries around the world. Our cost-effective solutions are designed to meet the demands of any application, and our team of professionals is always ready to collaborate with you to find the perfect slewing ring for your needs. Based in Mississauga, Canada, we produce slewing rings that keep the world moving.

Whether you need a standard slewing ring or a custom solution, we are committed to building a lasting partnership with your business. Contact us online today to purchase a slewing ring bearing and discover how we can contribute to the success of your project.