Scheaffler will showcase new technologies at InnoTrans in Berlin
Motion technology company Schaeffler will showcase its sensor-based systems and data models for predictive maintenance at InnoTrans 2024 in Berlin, Germany. This service is for reliability and greater efficiency.
Dr. Michael Holzapfel, senior vice president of business unit rail at Schaeffler said: “The portfolio we are presenting at InnoTrans 2024 once again proves that sustainability is a powerful driver of innovation in the rail sector.”
Holzapfel said: “Our technologically pioneering products and services ensure greater energy efficiency, conservation of resources, and maximum uptime. In this way, Schaeffler not only supports our customers’ sustainability goals but also makes a strategically important contribution to their competitiveness.”
The company aims to provide reliable and robust products, as this maximises uptime and efficiency in rail transportation. Schaeffler’s Tarol axlebox bearings are also on display, which are suitable for passenger trains, high-speed trains, freight and heavy goods transport as well as underground trains and trams. They have a long service life and low-friction bearings.
Tarol axlebox bearings are manufactured for specific applications, meeting the requirements of circumstances the bearings are needed for. Bearing dimensions and materials, the required payload and mileage can all be adapted depending on the situation.
Class GG freight transport locomotives can be fitted with friction-optimised seals whilst Class K vehicles such as heavy goods traffic can be supplied with variants of this technology. This increases energy efficiency as well as making sure operations are safe.
Schaeffler’s supply chain begins with its data matrix code (DMC) which identifies components with a unique laser marking. This allows for maintenance information to be recorded as well as operational data, increasing the level of condition monitoring and predictive planning of maintenance.
DMC allows data exchange between Schaeffler, OEM suppliers and railway operators by linking databases. Condition monitoring systems can be set up and fed this data.
Both an entry-level model and a vehicle-based railway condition monitoring system will be on display at InnoTrans.
Remanufacturing is more economical and sustainable to operate in a closed-loop system industry such as rail transportation. Bearings which can achieve 95% resource savings can be remanufactured by Schaeffler, depending on the reconditioning required. Remanufactured products come with the same guarantees as originally made products.
Raceways can be damaged by unwanted currents in wheelsets, gearboxes and traction motors. Rolling elements and lubricants can be broken down leading to early component failures. This results in early maintenance and repair costs, as well as delays in service. Electrically insulated bearings prevent these issues from occurring, as they are coated in ceramic with ceramic rolling elements.
High-capacity cylindrical roller bearings for traction motors featuring the new single-part “MP” solid brass care will also be on display. The new cage is designed to simplify bearing reconditioning as rollers can be removed without damaging the cage. The new “M1” cage can withstand vibrations and shocks even at high rotational speeds.
