Machine reliability is key to ensuring sustainable mining operations and the smooth operation of dump trucks is especially critical in keeping mine production optimal.

SKF says its Explorer tapered roller bearings have been specifically developed for mining dump trucks working in severe conditions such as extreme temperatures, or dusty, muddy or stony terrain.

The tapered roller bearings are typically used as bearing solutions in applications where there is a need to increase performance, reduce friction or increase power density. SKF explains that it based the development of the bearings on real-world experience and interactions with its partners. It says the bearings are manufactured in accordance with the SKF Explorer class and incorporate expertise in design, tribology, metallurgy and lubrication to ensure exceptional reliability and rotational delivery.

The construction of a tapered roller bearing features a cup and cone assembly designed to accommodate loads and provide low friction during operation. The cup is comprised of an outer ring while the cone assembly consists of an inner ring, a cage and rollers ­– all designed to handle combined loads. The bearings’ optimised surface finish helps improve  reliability while the separable and interchangeable components facilitate mounting and maintenance.

SKF offers a range of tapered roller bearing designs including single, double and four-row as well as matched tapered roller bearings. The units are customisable to match specific conditions such as speed, load, contamination, temperature or vibration conditions. The company says its Explorer cylindrical and CARB toroidal roller bearings are reliable, compact, efficient and cost-effective solutions for planetary gearboxes, with both bearing types offering high carrying capacity.

SKF also supplies condition monitoring and lubrication systems that provide insight into the health of machines, allowing for preventative maintenance while automated lubrication systems help enhance machine lifecycle, and improve operational reliability and performance.