Schaeffler, one of the leading companies in motion technology, has been recognized as a finalist for the prestigious Hermes Award 2025 thanks to its innovative XZU angular contact needle bearing. This award, given in the context of the famous Hannover Messe fair, recognizes products that stand out for their technological innovation and contribution to the industry.
The XZU bearing is specifically designed for use in robotics and industrial automation. It is characterized by its arrangement of two rows, which significantly improves load distribution and reduces tilting during operation. This advanced design offers a tilting rigidity that is 30% higher than traditional crossed roller bearings, resulting in greater stability and precision in various applications, including the next generations of humanoid robots.
Sascha Zaps, CEO of Bearings & Industrial Solutions at Schaeffler AG, expressed his excitement for the nomination, noting that the XZU bearing symbolizes the company’s innovation and viability. According to Zaps, this product combines innovation and profitability, providing solutions that bring sustainable value to customers in various industry segments.
The growing use of robots and cobots worldwide has generated a strong demand for rotary joint solutions that meet strict standards of precision and dynamic behavior. Unlike crossed roller bearings, which can result in unstable movements and lubricant leaks, the XZU design incorporates needle cages, ensuring smooth and stable movement.
Tests conducted on a six-axis cobot have shown that by replacing a conventional bearing with the XZU, the trajectory deviation is reduced by 40% at a speed of 800 mm/s, without needing to adjust control parameters. This leads to a significant increase in machine efficiency.
The XZU bearing has also been designed to be compatible with the mounting dimensions of crossed roller bearings, facilitating its replacement. Additionally, its application extends to sectors where high levels of hygiene are critical, such as the food and medical industries, where contamination is a major concern.
Schaeffler will be showcasing its XZU bearing and other innovative technologies at the Hannover Messe, taking place from March 31 to April 4, 2025, at booth D18 in hall 5. It will also have a dedicated stand for hydrogen-based solutions in hall 13. The company continues to advance in the future of motion technology, offering solutions that not only meet current needs, but also tackle future challenges.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish