What is the difference between the use of internal and external teeth of turntable bearings?

Nov 05, 2024

As a key component in large-scale mechanical equipment, the design of turntable bearings includes a variety of structural forms, among which internal and external teeth are two common gear distribution methods. The application of these two methods in turntable bearings has its characteristics, which are mainly reflected in structural characteristics, load-bearing capacity, usage scenarios and maintenance.

1. Structural characteristics:

Internal gear turntable bearings:

The characteristic of internal gear turntable bearings is that their gears are located on the inner ring of the bearing. This design makes the bearing more compact in structure and suitable for application scenarios with limited space. The arrangement of internal teeth can make more effective use of the internal space of the bearing while facilitating connection with other transmission components, such as gearboxes, reducers, etc. In addition, the gear processing accuracy of internal gear slewing bearings is relatively high to ensure the smoothness and accuracy of transmission.

External gear turntable bearings:

In contrast, the gears of external gear slewing bearings are arranged on the outer ring of the bearing. This design makes the bearing more intuitive in appearance and easy to install and debug. The gears of external gear turntable bearings are usually larger and stronger in load-bearing capacity, suitable for occasions that need to withstand large external forces or torques. At the same time, the external gear slewing bearing is also convenient for connecting with external transmission components (such as sprockets, pulleys, etc.) to achieve power transmission.

2. Load-bearing capacity.

Internal gear slewing bearing:

Due to the compact structure of the internal gear slewing bearing, its load-bearing capacity is relatively limited. However, in specific application scenarios, such as occasions where high-precision transmission or space is limited, the internal gear slewing bearing can still show excellent performance. In addition, the load-bearing capacity of the internal gear slewing bearing can be further improved by optimizing the design and material selection.

External gear slewing bearing:

Due to its larger gear size and stronger structural characteristics, the external gear slewing bearing usually has a higher load-bearing capacity. This type of bearing is suitable for occasions that need to withstand large external forces or torques, such as heavy cranes, port machinery, etc. At the same time, the external gear slewing bearing also has strong rigidity and stability, which can ensure stability and reliability during the transmission process.

3. Usage scenario.

Internal gear slewing bearing:

Due to its compact structure and high-precision transmission characteristics, the internal gear slewing bearing is usually used on occasions with strict space requirements and high-precision transmission. For example, in the fields of automated assembly lines and precision machine tools, internal gear slewing bearings can play an important role. In addition, in some small or micromechanical equipment, internal gear slewing bearings are also widely used because of their small size and lightweight.

External gear slewing bearings:

External gear slewing bearings are widely used in heavy mechanical equipment because of their high load-bearing capacity and strong stability. For example, in large equipment such as offshore platform cranes, port cranes, and stackers, external gear slewing bearings can withstand huge external forces and torques to ensure the normal operation of the equipment. At the same time, on some occasions that require frequent start and stop, external gear slewing bearings also show good durability and reliability.

4. Maintenance and maintenance of slewing bearings.

Internal gear slewing bearings:

The maintenance of internal gear slewing bearings is relatively complicated. Due to its compact structure and the gears located inside, it is more difficult to check and replace lubricating oil. In addition, the gear processing accuracy of internal gear slewing bearings is high, and once a failure or damage occurs, the cost of repair or replacement is relatively high. Therefore, when using internal gear slewing bearings, special attention should be paid to regular maintenance and maintenance to ensure their long-term stable operation.

External gear slewing bearing:

The maintenance of external gear slewing bearings is relatively simple. Because its gear is located outside and the structure is more intuitive, it is convenient to check and replace the lubricating oil. At the same time, the replacement and repair of the parts of the external gear slewing bearing are also relatively easy to carry out. However, it should be noted that when using the external gear slewing bearing, regular inspection and maintenance are still required to ensure the stability of its transmission performance and load-bearing capacity.

In summary, there are significant differences between the internal and external teeth of the slewing bearing in terms of structural characteristics, load-bearing capacity, usage scenarios and maintenance. When selecting a slewing bearing, it is necessary to determine the appropriate gear distribution method according to the specific application scenarios and requirements. At the same time, it is also necessary to pay attention to regular maintenance and maintenance during use to ensure the long-term stable operation of the bearing and extend its service life. In future development, with the advancement of science and technology and the improvement of manufacturing technology, the performance and application range of slewing bearings will continue to expand and improve.