At ONS 2016, the offshore exhibition and conference in Stavanger, Norway, SKF will highlight a broad range of offerings that can boost reliability and efficiency in the onshore and offshore sector – ranging from bearings and seals for top drives, through to improved maintenance solutions. 
SKF Enlight is a data collection, analysis and support system that will help energy companies move their paper-based maintenance processes online. Available as a mobile device app, it simplifies inspection by connecting to a wide variety of sensors. Once collected, process data – along with photos and video – can be wirelessly uploaded directly to the SKF cloud and analysed.
On show at ONS will be an innovative design of tapered roller thrust bearing (TRThB), designed to significantly improve the reliability of top drive systems. The TRThB has been developed using a new generation of advanced simulation technology, which has enabled SKF to optimise the internal geometry of the bearing. Combined with a new type of cage, modified roller design and the use of specially machined bearing surfaces, this has reduced friction to a minimum, helped to extend lubrication life, even under extreme temperatures, and increased the load rating and shock resistance. SKF anticipates that the new TRThB will help to extend the operating life of top drives, while reducing operating costs.
SKF has also developed a special seal that can be more easily installed in wellheads. The Locking T-seal – patented by SKF,– has a small ‘notch’ that ensures correct installation and reduces the chance of it being damaged. The product is now being validated for full use in the oil and gas industry. Other seals from the SKF range being shown at ONS 2016 include a new range of S and FS seals, which are fully validated to the API 6A-17D standards necessary for use in wellheads.
Other highlights at ONS include SKF’s latest S2M active magnetic bearings using the same technology as in the first ever subsea compressor project. These contact-free devices are powered by advanced electromagnets, which generate radial and axial forces to levitate a central shaft and allow it to rotate without friction. An integrated control system actively monitors and continuously adjusts the current to maintain shaft position. This creates a device that offers exceptionally high levels of precision and stability, even at extreme speeds, making it ideal for demanding offshore applications (offshore, subsea, onshore). Thanks to SKF’s experience with over 1000 units installed, Statoil confidently specified SKF S2M active magnetic bearings for their Åsgard subsea gas compression system, which is now operating 300m below the surface of the North Sea.
Also on show will be SKF slewing bearings, (including Kaydon) and a new sensor bearing unit.
The SKF MTE-324T slewing ring bearings are used in top drives and other applications, from cranes to riser connections, and feature a 4-point contact design. This adjusts for radial, axial and moment loads and features integral seals to resist contamination and extend service life.
The new sensor bearing unit is designed to cut downtime by improving the monitoring and control of electric motors, which work in extreme conditions. The new unit uses rugged speed sensor technology, incorporated into a simple unitised assembly, to enable it to easily retrofitted in the field to top drives or drawworks machines.
ONS 2016 takes place at the Stavanger Forum in Stavanger, Norway on 29 August – 1 September 2016. Visitors to the event will find SKF at Booth 960.
SKF
www.skf.com
