Page 15 - Industrial Technology EXTRA 10th May 2021

Reliable performance
is vital in modern
agriculture, which is why
the company insists on
high-quality components
for its machines. The
development process for
FieldLoad Pro highlights
this ethos. Tong wanted a
solution to precisely and
reliably control the slewing
position of the crop
unloading elevator, in
effect a type of cleated
conveyor that expedites
the efficient transfer of
harvested, clean crops to
an awaiting trailer
“We decided on a turntable bearing for this task “For this project, Rodriguez gave me all the
because, looking at the loadings and level of control support I could ask for,” says Mr Milson. “When I
required, it seemed the most reliable option,” was looking at making the optimum selection, the
explains Tong Engineering’s Product Development advice I received was enormously helpful, pointing
Manager, Neil Milson. me in the right direction for this particular
After a little research and advice, the company application.”
identified a KDM series turntable bearing from Originally, Tong Engineering had specified a
Rodriguez as its preferred option. larger bearing, but Rodriguez calculated that a
Rodriguez medium series KDM four-point- smaller unit would still meet the needs of the task,
contact bearings have for many years been meeting thus helping the customer to reduce costs.
requirements in a multitude of approved and Each FieldLoad PRO requires one turntable
economical turntable applications. As axial and bearing, and each bearing features a pinion (also
radial loads - and tilting moments - can be supplied by Rodriguez – SS825 model). Rodriguez
absorbed, these bearings are robust and proven in has already supplied four turntable bearing/pinion
the toughest of tasks. Featuring hardened raceways, sets to Tong Engineering as it ramps up the
KDM turntable bearings are available ungeared or production of its FieldLoad PRO, every one of which
with gear teeth as an integral part of either the inner is built to order.
or outer ring. “The KDM turntable bearing has more than
The KDM.I (internal gear) variant, supplied to performed to its requirements,” concludes Mr
Tong Engineering, features a diameter of 1094mm Milson. “It is a robust piece of equipment that looks
with standard clearances of ≤0.3mm (radial) and right for the job it needs to do. The quality of the
≤0.53mm (axial), although reduced clearance product is really good.”
options are also available. www.rarodriguez.co.uk

May 2021 • INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY EXTRA • p15