Seals in wind turbines serve as the first line of defense against dirt, debris, saltwater, moisture, temperature changes, ozone, and UV radiation, all while enduring extreme mechanical forces, high and variable loads, and vibration.
To create effective seals for turbines, suppliers must have a thorough understanding of these challenges. Based on its extensive experience, SKF offers molded and machined sealing solutions designed to withstand demanding environments.
Molded seals
SKF’s molded seals for the wind industry are expertly engineered to meet the stringent demands of modern wind turbines. Whether you need a standard, special, or fully customized seal, SKF has the solution for you. These rubber seals, with a PTFE liner on the sealing lip, are part of SKF’s patented technology and perform exceptionally well with both oil and grease lubrication systems.
Designed to endure harsh environments, SKF’s molded seals operate effectively in temperatures ranging from -50°C to 150°C and can withstand exposure to ozone and salt mist — conditions that are all too common in offshore and coastal wind farms. They are especially effective in main shaft applications, where they help reduce friction by up to 80%, contributing to the overall efficiency and longevity of wind turbine components.
If you are looking to order, SKF has for made to order items a delivery time of less than ten weeks, with a minimum order requirement of just six pieces — just enough to keep you stocked without overloading your inventory.
Machined seals
SKF’s machined seals for the wind industry are available in a wide range of sizes, from 3 mm to 3600 mm in a single piece, with welded versions extending beyond 20,000 mm. These seals are made from high-performance materials designed to withstand the challenging conditions found in wind turbine applications. They are specifically built for grease lubrication, which helps maintain smooth operation while reducing the risk of contamination. The seals are also designed for easy installation, minimizing potential downtime during maintenance.
One of the best things about SKF’s machined seals is how adaptable they are. Designed to meet specific application needs, these seals can be customized to fit unique housing configurations, making them an ideal choice for both standard and specialized setups. They also excel at solving common problems such as leakage and wear, making them a reliable choice for maintaining the integrity and performance of wind turbines.
When it comes to availability, SKF makes it easy to get the seals you need quickly. They are available for immediate delivery with no minimum order requirements. This means you can get what you need quickly, reducing downtime and keeping your turbines running.
The bottom line
In the world of wind energy, every component plays a role in keeping things running smoothly — and seals are no exception. Whether you choose a molded or a machined seal, SKF has the solutions to keep your turbines operating at their best.
