In the demanding environment of underground and hard rock mining, equipment reliability and performance are paramount. Tony Tormey, Motion category manager for industrial bearings, emphasises the significance of selecting the right bearings for mining applications.

“Timken sets the industry standard for tapered roller bearing quality and performance,” Tormey said.

“With their superior quality and exceptional performance, Timken tapered roller bearings are supporting the mining industry with extended maintenance periods.

“Timken tapered roller bearings boast enhanced surface finishes and optimised internal geometry, resulting in reduced energy consumption. This not only improves overall efficiency but also contributes to cost savings for mining operations.

“One of the critical advantages of Timken tapered roller bearings lie in their positive roller alignment. This feature ensures longer bearing life and greater reliability, even in harsh mining environments where loads can be intense.”

The beauty of these bearings is that they can be used in a number of applications within the underground and hard rock mining industry.

Cutter heads, for instance, play a crucial role in excavating coal or minerals. Tormey highlighted that Timken tapered roller bearings offer robust support and smooth rotation for cutter heads.

“This optimised performance enhances the efficiency and longevity of the cutter heads, ensuring optimal mining operations,” he said.

Gear drives are vital components of mining equipment like conveyors, crushers, and mills.