According to the European Commission (EC), “The digitalisation of the European agricultural sector has the potential to revolutionise the industry, promoting efficiency, sustainability and competitiveness”. New technologies, including smart actuators and intelligent sensors will be vital to Agriculture 4.0 and ‘precision agriculture’. But a vital component in these technologies mustn’t be overlooked: bearings. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at SMB Bearings, explains how specialty bearings support smoother movement, reduced friction and a great precision on Agriculture 4.0 farms ..read more

The Automated Test Equipment (ATE) market, valued at USD 8.5 billion in 2022, is poised for an impressive surge with a 10 per cent CAGR (2023-2032) propelled by the global shift towards vehicle electrification. ATE, the cornerstone of precision testing, relies fundamentally on industrial bearings. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at specialist bearing supplier SMB Bearings, explains how miniature and instrument ball bearings can support ATE advancement in such areas as control, instrumentation and metrology ..read more

Bearing manufacturers are increasingly embracing sustainability by merging recycled materials into their production processes. This shift is motivated by a heightened environmental awareness, regulatory pressures, and the demand for eco-friendly products from customers. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director of bearing specialist SMB Bearings, explores the benefits of integrating recycled materials in bearing manufacturing to reduce environmental impact and promote a circular economy ..read more

The integration of drones in manufacturing is on the cusp of a significant transformation. Commercial and private deployment of airborne drones is revolutionising many industries, and the global commercial market is expected to reach an impressive £15 billion. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at SMB Bearings explains why precision bearings will play a pivotal role in ensuring seamless industrial drone operations ..read more

Contamination in a vacuum chamber can result in dangerous chemical reactions and unwanted side effects. The Princeton University office of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) highlights that vacuum work can lead to implosions and potential dangers of airborne contaminants, glass, chemicals splattering and fire. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at specialist bearing supplier SMB Bearings, explains what to consider when choosing lubricants and bearings for vacuum environments ..read more

Subsea applications are characterised by constantly harsh conditions and extreme environments. In marine environments, various applications involve propeller shafts and components for underwater robots and telecommunication systems. However, in the presence of water, salt, and harsh elements, selecting just any bearing won't suffice — it's crucial to choose the right one for optimal performance and durability. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at specialist bearing supplier SMB Bearings, examines the potential of ceramic bearings in marine environments ..read more

In hazardous environments such as those found in the oil and gas industry, bearings are often subjected to demanding application conditions. Components used in these hostile environments are therefore designed to fulfil rigorous industry standards such as NEMA ratings and the IP Code (IEC 60529). Here Chris Johnson, managing director at steel bearings supplier SMB Bearings explains five considerations when choosing steel bearings for harsh operating conditions ..read more

According to McKinsey & Company’s Lightweight, heavy impact report, the use of lighter materials in the latest aircraft and automobile designs will be essential to reducing the CO2 emissions these vehicles produce. But lightweighting presents design and cost challenges, as well as sustainability advantages, for manufacturers. To overcome these, here, Chris Johnson, managing director at specialist bearing supplier SMB Bearings, explains why design engineers should give serious consideration to thin section and stainless steel bearings ..read more

"Space is a risky business,” once said Aaron Cohen, the Acting Deputy Administrator of NASA. “I always considered every launch a barely controlled explosion." With several new space projects expected in the near future, these risks must be avoided at all costs. This puts a greater onus on engineers to create high-performing components that can withstand violent shuttle launches and inhospitable vacuums of space. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at specialist bearing supplier SMB Bearings, explains the vital role of advanced bearings in man’s journeys beyond the stars ..read more

Precision bearings are among critical components in medical devices that are vital to ensuring patient safety. Yet, according to the 2022 Recall Index by Sedgewick, medical device recalls have reached a record number over the last three years, with safety issues being the top reason. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director at specialist bearing supplier SMB Bearings, explains why the correct choice of suitable ball and ring materials and the right product design can ensure high-precision bearings — and medical devices — have a long service life ..read more