High-Performance Bearing Solutions from Schaeffler for Your Electric Motor

Electric motors are essential for a wide range of applications across virtually all industries. The rolling bearing requirements vary depending on the size and intended use of the motor. Small electric motors – such as those found in household appliances or consumer goods – are required to be compact and quiet, support high speeds, and offer long service life with minimal maintenance. As a result, bearing solutions for small electric motors are often lubricated for life. For medium-sized electric motors with outputs of up to 500 kW, used in industrial machinery, pumps, and fans, robust rolling bearings are key. These bearings must exhibit a high load capacity under alternating load conditions, minimize friction, and enhance energy efficiency. In large electric motors used in heavy industry and power generation, the bearings must be able to support extremely high loads while also being resistant to shocks and vibrations, easy to maintain, and capable of withstanding extreme operating conditions. Choosing the right rolling bearings is crucial to the performance and service life of your motors and must therefore be precisely matched to the specific requirements of each application. 

Across all sectors, frequency converters are becoming increasingly important in the face of strict efficiency regulations and rising energy costs as they help improve energy efficiency and enable flexible speed control. However, they also generate parasitic motor currents that can damage rolling bearings. For this reason, current-insulating rolling bearing solutions are especially important to help prevent such damage and extend bearing life. In addition, the market for industrial electric motors is being shaped by overarching trends that Schaeffler factors in to its product development. 

Electric motors are indispensable in today's world. To ensure maximum system uptime, they must operate reliably, efficiently, and quietly. Depending on the application, use case, and motor design, rolling bearings are subject to specific requirements. Schaeffler offers immediate availability for a wide range of premium standard bearings, which are designed to optimize friction performance, resulting in energy-efficient operation, extended service life, and longer maintenance intervals that pay off over time. 

Solutions for small electric motors (< 3 kW)

Solutions for medium-sized electric motors (3 kW – 500 kW)

Solutions for large electric motors and generators (> 500 kW)

When designing an electric motor, electrical layout, shaft strength calculations, and bearing selection all play a critical role. As a rolling bearing manufacturer, we have extensive experience in defining the optimal bearing system and calculating its service life. To support you in this process, we offer a range of online engineering tools that allow you to handle many aspects of rolling bearing selection independently.

In addition to tailored products, our Lifetime Solutions are essential building blocks for the competitive production environments of tomorrow. From mounting tools and intelligent condition monitoring to automatic lubricators, premium lubricants, and expert services, Schaeffler offers comprehensive solutions as your trusted partner. With Lifetime Solutions from Schaeffler, your machines will continue to run as smoothly in the future as they do today. 

Selected Lifetime Solutions for electric motors

Discover how you can extend the service life of your bearings – whether through condition monitoring or the correct lubrication.