Slewing Rings
A slewing ring is a solution that enables rotational motion between components, using two concentric rings as the main structure. These slewing bearings are made up of an inner and an outer ring, one of which will generally incorporate a gear whilst both elements include attachment holes. This enables optimized power transmission with a simple and fast connection between adjacent components. They are designed to transmit axial, radial, and tilting moment loads in one assembly, greatly reducing space, weight and the high costs of investing in other rotational designs.
Slewing rings can have multiple different names. They could also be known as turntable bearings and slewing bearings, both are terms which can be used interchangeably to refer to the same type of product. These bearings can be made from many different materials including carbon steel, stainless steel, chrome steel, brass, anodized aluminium and plastic. Slewing rings that use plastic can be beneficial due to being electrically insulated, thus meaning additional grounding is not needed. When slewing rings use a ball design, additional consideration needs to be given to insulation and an extra polymer layer may be needed.
Slewing rings come in various sizes to accommodate different applications, though they tend to be used with heavy loads - the slewing bearings themselves might range from small components up to a few metres in size. They can be used in packaging, robotics, wind power, drilling, mining and lifting.
Slewing rings vary considerably depending on size and the bolt-hole pattern. Their construction consist of the following components:
- An internal or external gear
- Ball or crossed roller bearing design
- Single or double rows
- Lubrication holes