Specialist Bearing News

Bearing the weight of space

Bearings 29-08-2024

As NASA prepares its first Moon landing in nearly 50 years, the idea of colonising space inches closer. Projections suggest that commercial space travel, space tourism, orbital space stations and lunar habitats could become a reality by 2050. However, to make this possible, technology must withstand the harsh conditions of space including extreme temperatures and the demands of electric propulsion. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director of SMB Bearings, discusses the essential role of precision bearings in making space habitation possible.

The future of farming

Bearings 15-07-2024

McKinsey & Company reports that fully autonomous orchards and vineyards in the US, “can deliver more than $400 per acre per year in value, doubling to quadrupling returns on farmers’ investment in automation.” Autonomous machinery promises increased efficiency and productivity. However, this shift also presents new challenges for component manufacturers — particularly those involved in the design and performance of bearings. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director of bearing specialist SMB Bearings, discusses the unique demands autonomous agricultural equipment places on bearings.

Smart bearings support Industry 5.0

Bearings 18-06-2024

As industries align with the European Commission (EC)’s report Industry 5.0: Towards a Sustainable, Human-Centric and Resilient European Industry, predictive maintenance will be integral to Industry 5.0’s more sustainable, human-centric ethos. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at SMB Bearings explains how, by preventing failures, reducing maintenance costs, and extending component lifespan, sensor-equipped bearings will be at the forefront of smart maintenance and supporting Industry 5.0 goals.

Why bearings will be essential to Agriculture 4.0

Bearings 03-04-2024

According to the European Commission (EC), “The digitalisation of the European agricultural sector has the potential to revolutionise the industry, promoting efficiency, sustainability and competitiveness”. New technologies, including smart actuators and intelligent sensors will be vital to Agriculture 4.0 and ‘precision agriculture’. But a vital component in these technologies mustn’t be overlooked: bearings. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at SMB Bearings, explains how specialty bearings support smoother movement, reduced friction and a great precision on Agriculture 4.0 farms.

Elevating food and beverage production

Bearings 18-03-2024

In the food and beverage packaging industry, the demand for high-quality products is inseparable from the need for impeccable hygiene and efficient processing. Traditional bearing materials often fall short in meeting these critical requirements. Enter ceramic bearings — a solution that offers not only enhanced performance but also addresses the stringent hygiene standards demanded by food and beverage environments. Here Chris Johnson, managing director at ceramic bearings supplier, SMB Bearings explains the benefits of opting for this material type.

The rise of recycled materials in bearing manufacturing

Bearings 04-03-2024

Bearing manufacturers are increasingly embracing sustainability by merging recycled materials into their production processes. This shift is motivated by a heightened environmental awareness, regulatory pressures, and the demand for eco-friendly products from customers. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director of bearing specialist SMB Bearings, explores the benefits of integrating recycled materials in bearing manufacturing to reduce environmental impact and promote a circular economy.

Revolutionising testing with bearings

Bearings 29-02-2024

The Automated Test Equipment (ATE) market, valued at USD 8.5 billion in 2022, is poised for an impressive surge with a 10 per cent CAGR (2023-2032) propelled by the global shift towards vehicle electrification. ATE, the cornerstone of precision testing, relies fundamentally on industrial bearings. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at specialist bearing supplier SMB Bearings, explains how miniature and instrument ball bearings can support ATE advancement in such areas as control, instrumentation and metrology.

Enhancing industrial drone operations

Bearings 29-12-2023

The integration of drones in manufacturing is on the cusp of a significant transformation. Commercial and private deployment of airborne drones is revolutionising many industries, and the global commercial market is expected to reach an impressive £15 billion. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at SMB Bearings explains why precision bearings will play a pivotal role in ensuring seamless industrial drone operations.

Selecting the right bearings for ultra-high vacuum chambers

Bearings 30-11-2023

Contamination in a vacuum chamber can result in dangerous chemical reactions and unwanted side effects. The Princeton University office of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) highlights that vacuum work can lead to implosions and potential dangers of airborne contaminants, glass, chemicals splattering and fire. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at specialist bearing supplier SMB Bearings, explains what to consider when choosing lubricants and bearings for vacuum environments.

Bearings for marine environments

Bearings 01-09-2023

Subsea applications are characterised by constantly harsh conditions and extreme environments. In marine environments, various applications involve propeller shafts and components for underwater robots and telecommunication systems. However, in the presence of water, salt, and harsh elements, selecting just any bearing won't suffice — it's crucial to choose the right one for optimal performance and durability. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at specialist bearing supplier SMB Bearings, examines the potential of ceramic bearings in marine environments.

Less friction, fewer emissions

Bearings 28-06-2023

According to the International Energy Agency, the industrial sector is responsible for a staggering 37 per cent of global CO2 emissions, making it the largest emitting sector worldwide — with industrial machinery being a significant contributor. This alarming reality underscores the urgent need to address the environmental impact of industrial machinery and find sustainable solutions to reduce its carbon footprint. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at specialist bearing supplier SMB Bearings, explores how specialty industrial bearings can play a pivotal role in mitigating these negative impacts, offering a path towards a more sustainable future.

Bearings for improved patient safety

Bearings 10-05-2023

Precision bearings are among critical components in medical devices that are vital to ensuring patient safety. Yet, according to the 2022 Recall Index by Sedgewick, medical device recalls have reached a record number over the last three years, with safety issues being the top reason. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at specialist bearing supplier SMB Bearings, explains why the correct choice of suitable ball and ring materials and the right product design can ensure high-precision bearings — and medical devices — have a long service life.