Timken Launches UltraWind Bearings to Boost Reliability of Multi‑Megawatt Wind Turbines

The wind energy sector is rapidly embracing multi‑megawatt turbines, amplifying the demand for dependable drivetrain components. Leveraging 110 years of engineering heritage, Timken introduces the UltraWind Series – a new line of ultra‑large tapered roller bearings built upon Henry Timken’s 1898 patent, designed to meet the unique challenges of modern wind power.

"Imagine how Henry Timken would delight in seeing his tapered roller bearings evolve to power wind turbines with outer diameters up to 3 m (9 ft)," says Hans Landin, Timken’s Director of Process Original Equipment and Wind Energy. "The UltraWind Series retains the core engineering of the original invention, but is tailored for turbine applications—high‑altitude towers, extreme environmental conditions, and unpredictable load cycles—requiring a holistic system that integrates bearings, seals, lubrication, and condition monitoring."

Verified by Germanischer Lloyd, the UltraWind Series offers the industry’s highest life ratings while simplifying the drivetrain for both geared and gearless main‑shaft wind turbine designs. Its pre‑loaded tapered roller bearing architecture excels in managing stresses, rigidity, and load distribution—critical factors that determine bearing longevity and overall turbine reliability.

Key performance attributes include superior stiffness to control main‑shaft and rotor motion, raceway profiles engineered to keep peak stresses within safe limits, and cages optimized for capacity and roller retention. The series is available in both steel and polymer configurations to suit a wide range of operational demands.

As part of an integrated main‑shaft solution, Timken collaborates closely with customers to align bearing performance with specific operating conditions. By evaluating the entire bearing‑drivetrain system, Timken optimizes sustainable life and delivers cost‑effective, reliable solutions for the next generation of wind turbines.