SoCare® WD Series Slewing Drives 

We can produce Slewing Drives to replace some of IMO items:

WD-LA Series : Size 0223 / single row; Size 0343 / single row; Size 0419 / single row; Size 0478 / single row; Size 0625 / single row; 

A slewing drive (also known as a slewing actuator, rotary actuator, or worm gear drive) is a compact, fully integrated gearbox that provides high-torque, controlled rotational motion. It is essentially a complete motion system built around a slewing bearing.

Core Concept: The Integration

The simplest way to understand a slewing drive is to see it as the combination of three key components:

1. Slewing Bearing: The foundation, capable of handling high combined loads.

2. Worm Gear Set: A worm screw meshing with the internal or external gear on the slewing bearing. This provides the high reduction ratio and the driving force.

3. Housing & Seals: A robust housing that encapsulates the components, provides mounting points, and includes seals to protect against contamination.

This integration transforms a passive rotational support (the bearing) into an active, driven power package.

Also,customized Slewing drives are an important part of our business, we could supply special Slewing Drives made to order with special raw material, special treatment on surface or structure.

Key Characteristics & Advantages

Feature Description Benefit

High Reduction Ratio Achieved through the worm and gear configuration in a single stage. Provides high output torque from a compact package, allowing the use of smaller motors.

High Torque Density Delivers a significant amount of torque relative to its size and weight. Ideal for space-constrained and weight-sensitive applications.

Self-Locking Capability A inherent characteristic of most worm drives (depending on the lead angle). Prevents back-driving, holding a load securely in a stationary position without the need for a brake. This is critical for safety in applications like solar trackers or lifting equipment.

Compact & Integrated Design Combines bearing, gearing, and mounting structure into one sealed unit. Simplifies design, reduces the number of parts, and makes installation easier and faster.

Controlled Rotation Offers precise positioning and smooth, slow rotation. Excellent for applications requiring accurate angular movement.

Common Configurations

Slewing drives are highly configurable:

· Single or Dual Worm Drives: A single worm is common. Dual worms, mounted 180° apart, provide torque redundancy, eliminate backlash, and ensure even load distribution on the gear for critical applications.

· Input Shaft Orientation: The worm input shaft can be in-line with the rotation axis (co-axial) or at a right angle, depending on the design and available space.

· Internal vs. External Gearing: The gear can be on the inside (internal) or outside (external) of the bearing, affecting the overall footprint and mounting.

Typical Applications

Slewing drives are the preferred solution wherever heavy loads need to be rotated slowly, precisely, and held securely.

· Solar Tracking Systems: The most common application. They tilt and rotate solar panels to follow the sun accurately.

· Wind Turbines: Used for pitch control (adjusting the angle of the blades) and yaw control (orienting the nacelle).

· Construction & Cranes: In knuckle booms, crane jibs, and personnel lifts for precise positioning.

· Material Handling: Rotating heavy platforms, mixers, and industrial index tables.

· Agriculture & Mining: In large irrigation systems, conveyor swingers, and drilling equipment.

Slewing Drive vs. Slewing Bearing: The Key Difference

This is a crucial distinction:

· Slewing Bearing: A component. It allows rotation and supports loads but requires an external drive system (like a motor and pinion) to make it turn.

· Slewing Drive: A complete assembly. It incorporates the slewing bearing, the reduction gearing (worm gear), and often the mounting housing. You simply connect a motor to its input shaft, and it is ready to provide driven rotation.

In summary, a slewing drive is a powered, self-contained rotary actuator that offers an unparalleled combination of high torque, compact size, self-locking safety, and controlled motion for heavy-duty applications.

Pls contact us if you need:info@socaremsi.com

With SoCare®-MSI,you can expect more!