The new SKF axial excluder seal provides a high-performance alternative to conventional rubber seals for protecting wind turbine main shaft bearings from contaminants. Ultimately, the seal represents an advanced first line of defense against any debris or contaminants the wind may carry, helping wind farm operators significantly reduce the risks of contaminant-related bearing failures—as well as the high costs of associated unplanned downtime, repair, and lost productivity. 

 

Unlike conventional rubber seals typically prone to excessive wear and subsequent failure, the SKF axial excluder seal (designated HRC1) is manufactured from a proprietary SKF polyurethane material, exhibiting excellent resistance to wear, abrasion, UV radiation, and ozone. Early field trials confirmed the HRC1 seal’s performance levels and robustness. Seals installed on 40 separate 2.5 MW turbines operated continuously under real-world conditions and, after three months, an initial inspection revealed only normally expected run-in wear—with no dramatic changes six months later. HRC1 axial displacement seals are available in standard solid and split versions for shaft sizes from 1 m to 3 m, with options for custom solutions.

 

SKF USA Inc. 

www.skfusa.com