A new portable and easy to use induction heater from SKF, the TWIM 15, makes the hot mounting of bearings and similar parts, fast and safe.
“All the operator has to do is to place the bearing in the centre of the heater and connect a temperature probe to the top of inner ring or workpiece bore. With the push of a button, the TWIM 15 will heat the bearing to the target temperature for hot mounting,” commented Alberto Herrera, product development manager at SKF.
Induction heaters introduce heat into a component using alternating magnetic fields. These fields create currents in the bearing or workpiece, which heats up owing to its natural resistance to electric currents (the so-called Joule effect). The resulting increase in temperature causes the material to expand, allowing the bearing to be mounted without any friction or force. As soon as the bearing is correctly positioned and the temperature decreases, it contracts to its original form and creates the right interference fit on the shaft.
This process reduces risks of damage to the bearing, shaft and operator compared with other methods for heating bearings such as oil baths or open flame. However, some induction heaters can cause overheating, which can damage the bearing.
The TWIM 15 is fitted with a temperature probe, smart electronics and an advanced operating software, enabling the heater to optimise the heating process accordingly, ensuring that the bearing is heated safely and reliably.
The TWIM 15 is more versatile and convenient to use than other bearing heaters. It features a flat induction plate that does not require the use of a support yoke and it can heat a wide variety of bearings and components, including sensitive parts such as bearings with reduced clearance.
Manufactured from rugged glass fibre-reinforced plastic, the TWIM 15 is lightweight and transportable, allowing it to be used in the field, and its user-friendly control panel enables it to be operated without any special training.
“Bearings can fail prematurely if they are not installed correctly. Getting the temperature right during hot-mounting is a key part of avoiding untimely failures. What sets the TWIM 15 apart from other induction heaters is its performance and versatility. It is simple to use yet offers superior safety and reliability,” comments Brian Jagmohan, product marketing manager at SKF.
Having spent a decade in the fastener industry experiencing every facet – from steel mills, fastener manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, as well as machinery builders and plating + coating companies, Claire has developed an in-depth knowledge of all things fasteners.
Alongside visiting numerous companies, exhibitions and conferences around the world, Claire has also interviewed high profile figures – focusing on key topics impacting the sector and making sure readers stay up to date with the latest developments within the industry.
