2009 R&D 100 Winner
Billions of dollars are spent each year in the rotating equipment markets (power generation, transportation, chemical processing, etc.) on the power or torque needed to drive the equipment necessary for operations. The EcoTurn Seal was created by The Timken Company, Canton, Ohio, and the Federal Mogul Corp., Southfield, Mich., as a way to save a sizable portion of this energy expenditure. The seal uses non-contact labyrinth technology comprised of an elastomer seal element molded onto a stamped metal case and stamped metal shield component. The seal retains lubricant inside the bearing while preventing the ingress of outside contaminants into the bearing. This is achieved through the unique design of a tortuous labyrinthine path between the seal element and the shield. The combined effect of heat- and friction-dissipating technology is a torque reduction on a typical application of at least one order of magnitude, reduced fuel consumption, reduced maintenance, and reduced emissions. This reduction in torque could save companies hundreds or even thousands of kilowatts per year.
Technology
Seal
Developers
The Timken Company
Federal Mogul Corp.
