Description
The electrical insulation of silicon nitride balls effectively prevents current generated during operation from damaging bearing rings and rolling elements. In long-running wind-turbine bearings, lubricant starvation leads to fatigue and reduced life — the self-lubricating nature of silicon nitride resolves this. Even in tightly sealed bearings, contaminants can enter the raceway; because the balls are non-magnetic, particles do not easily adhere to the rolling elements. Corrosion resistance and low weight suit offshore and other harsh environments.
Key features
- Electrically insulating — prevents electrical erosion
- Self-lubricating — resists lubricant starvation and fatigue
- Non-magnetic — contaminants do not adhere
- Lightweight and corrosion-resistant for offshore service
Applications
Onshore and offshore wind turbine bearings.
Typical material properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 3.2 ± 0.05 g/cm³ |
| Relative density | > 99.5 % |
| Elastic modulus | 40 – 310 GPa |
| Crush load ratio | ≥ 40 % |
| Hardness (HV) | ≥ 14.2 GPa |
| Fracture toughness | 6.0 – 7.0 MPa·m¹ᐟ² |
| Flexural strength (3-point) | ≥ 820 MPa |
| Poisson's ratio | 0.25 |
| Coefficient of thermal expansion | 3.0 – 3.2 ×10⁻⁶/K |
| Weibull modulus | 10 – 12 |
| Thermal conductivity | 15 – 20 W/(m·K) |
| Electrical resistivity | 10¹⁴ Ω·cm |
| Acid / alkali corrosion resistance | Excellent |
| Dimensional stability | Excellent |
| Magnetism | None |
Typical values — contact us for the latest certificate of analysis.
