SKF has launched a new sensor bearing with improved protection against power surges. Typically used in electric motors, it has an in-line electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) filter that protects the sensitive sensor bearing electronics from high electric stresses.
“When you compare the nominal lifetime of a machine element like a bearing with that of an electronic sensor, you will find that the electronic component will most of the time outlast the mechanical one by far; but often the reality looks quite different, as electronic components in an industrial environment face electrical overloading due to power surges and electric discharges. The EMC filter, when applied in-line with the cable, improves sensor bearing reliability, reduces downtime and decreases maintenance costs,” says Olivier Message, director, sensor bearings.
In difficult applications such as fork-lifts operating in sugar factories or on insulated floors, a very strong electrostatic charge can build up on the fork-lift frame and discharge abruptly, for instance when near warehouse steel racks. The discharge spark can have a damaging effect on the electronics. It may not have a direct impact on sensors or the control unit, but the change in voltage can have a rebound effect, creating voltage surges in the lines. These voltage surges, which can result in electrical fast transients (EFTs) ranging from 100 to 4000 V, can have a temporary impact on the electricity supply or even damage the controller or sensors permanently. SKF recognised this problem with sensor bearings and was able to develop an in-line filter to protect the Hall sensor and other electronics used in its bearings.
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