Macro benefits in micro applications
Third Quarter 2023
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
With the micro-mobility market set to soar in the years through to 2030, NSK is in a prime position to help OEMs take advantage of this significant demand. The company’s bearings have all the strength, heat treatment and compact dimensional attributes needed to succeed in any project involving products such as e-bikes, e-scooters or cargo bikes.
According to a report released in August 2022 by market research specialist The Brainy Insights, the global micro-mobility market is set to reach $202 billion by 2030, representing an impressive growth rate of 17,45% during the 2022-2030 forecast period. Notably, the recovery of global tourism in the post-pandemic world is driving demand for micro-mobility and economical touring options. Transport modes of this type are also central to the plans of emerging smart cities. Such is the anticipated growth that a number of major automotive suppliers are currently looking at diversifying into the micro-mobility sector.
Of course, when demand for a solution is high, OEMs must identify robust technology partners able to demonstrate high quality, reliable products set against the backdrop of proven supply chain performance. Bearing suppliers are no exception.
With e-mobility applications comes a particular set of bearing requirements. Take e-bikes, for example. These machines are compact, yet relatively heavy loaded, as they must withstand high forces exerted by the rider, drivetrain and road. In direct correlation, bearings must also be compact, yet demonstrate considerable strength. A further demand is the need to minimise friction torque so that the e-bike is easy to handle.
The requirement for compact dimensions is nowhere more notable than e-bike drive units, which need to be as narrow as possible despite having to house both an electric motor and a gearbox. To help facilitate this design demand, OEMs can turn to the proven thin-section bearings of NSK, which are able to withstand both high loads and torque. NSK can offer a broad range of standard thin-section bearings, and bespoke offerings, to fit customer-specific requirements.
Thin-section bearings from NSK feature robust seals to prevent the ingress of moisture and contaminants thrown up by harsh road conditions, thus maximising service life. Furthermore, their smooth running, low-friction characteristics help to enhance rider comfort and minimise noise.
The inherent strength of NSK thin-section bearings derives from a number of engineered features, including special materials and heat treatment, helping to prevent deformation under load. These bearings are also beneficial in applications such as electric mountain bikes, where due to the potentially demanding terrain, the bearing must facilitate effective torque transfer to the drive without friction loss.
In summary, NSK thin-section bearings contribute to product downsizing and lighter weight in all micro-mobility applications. Furthermore, with lower frictional torque and less torque variation, the bearings improve torque transmission and provide smooth rotation, while also supporting high speeds.
For more information contact Geraldene Govender, NSK South Africa, +27 11 458 3600, [email protected], www.nsk.com
Further reading:
Safe handling in all sectors
Bearing Man Group T/A BMG
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
BMG is committed to ensuring optimum safety standards in all sectors, and encourages and assists customers to adhere to stringent safety legislation during bulk handling. Tsubaki backstops and cam clutches, which have been developed and manufactured in Japan for high efficiency and optimum safety in high- or low-speed applications, meet the requirements of current legislation.
Read more...
Leading the way in low maintenance and reliability to drive port success
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
South Africa’s ports play a pivotal role in the nation’s economy, serving as crucial gateways for international trade and commerce. These ports can elevate their status in global trade by modernising operations with cutting-edge lifting solutions, and drive further economic prosperity for the country.
Read more...
Motion control platform with customisable CNC user interface
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
The motion control experts at Aerotech have further expanded their Automation1 motion control platform. The latest version, 2.8, comes with a customisable CNC user interface, and now offers even more flexibility and user-friendliness for CNC users.
Read more...
Drive technology for tunnel construction
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Compact, robust, and reliable - these are the advantages of RUD’s Tecdos drive technology, which is a gamechanger in tunnel construction.
Read more...
EtherCAT measurement terminals for vehicle development at Mercedes-Benz
Beckhoff Automation
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
At the Mercedes Technology Centre plant in Sindelfingen, Germany, car axles are examined with the highest precision on four test benches, in parallel with road tests and simulations. All data is acquired using PC-based control from Beckhoff.
Read more...
Perfect balance for every race
Horne Technologies
Editor's Choice Electrical switching & drive systems & components
It goes without saying that success in Formula 1 requires a top driver. However, their chance of achieving a place on the podium depends on the car, which in turn depends on three essential factors: engine, tyres and aerodynamics. To find the optimum balance, the racing teams test models of their bolides in the wind tunnel. At Sauber, the adjustable components are moved on the model and in the test chamber using FAULHABER motors.
Read more...
Reshaping the future of air freight with Siemens software
Siemens South Africa
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Aerospace company, Natilus has adopted the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software. The company is focused on transforming the world’s supply chain with its next-generation blended-wing body aircraft, and through its use of Siemens software it has reduced the development time to build its first prototype aircraft by 50%.
Read more...
Electrifying the future
Parker Hannifin - Sales Company South Africa
Editor's Choice Electrical switching & drive systems & components
A revolution is underway, transforming the way we power compact construction machines and heavy-duty mobile machinery. This is the electrification of equipment, a movement propelled by the need for environmental sustainability, lower emissions, reduced noise levels, and the pursuit of a cleaner, greener future.
Read more...
High-performance motion control for teabag packaging machine
Beckhoff Automation
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Teepak relies on PC-based control and drive technology from Beckhoff to set new benchmarks for speed and precision in its teabag packaging machines.
Read more...
Compact VFDs with higher power ratings
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Invertek Drives has revealed the extension of its industry-leading Optidrive Coolvert variable frequency drive with the launch of two new compact frame sizes with higher power ratings.
Read more...
printer friendly version