NTN-SNR is pushing back the boundaries of automotive technology with the introduction of reversed tapered bearings to the OE sector to improve the energy performance of vehicles.

The technology was previously limited to applications specific to the aeronautics sector, but will soon be contributing to lowering vehicle CO2 emissions. NTN-SNR is currently conducting several tests with manufacturers to study its use in gearboxes and rear differentials. Sylvain Todeschini, NTN-SNR Project Engineer says, “The increase in energy efficiency reaches 5% to 10%.”

The concept of reversed tapered bearings is not itself new but applying it to cars is. It involves reversing the position of the functional thrust collar holding the rollers in place by putting it on the outer ring rather than on the inner ring. This design limits parasitic friction between the collar and rollers, thereby reducing drag torque.  It also allows for increased load-bearing capacity while maintaining constant overall dimensions. The bearing’s geometry also facilitates heat dissipation and improves lubricant retention. 

NTN-SNR has made several patented improvements to groove geometries and cage design in order to optimise performance and allow mass production.