Taper Rolling Bearing Replacement

This project presented an interesting challenge for us as we were called out to support a client who suspected a failure on a taper roller bearing supporting a 280-tonne jacking load. With significant weight involved and a critical path to manage, this repair required a carefully controlled process and innovative problem solving from our team.

For this project, we:

• Installed 4 x 109-tonne jacks to support the structure and release the failed bearing
• Locked off the jacks and inserted NDT-inspected jacking stools as temporary supports
• Extracted the disintegrated bearing using tirfors along a skid plate, with a mobile crane in use for extra support
• Installed the new bearing
• Replaced all associated components
• Completed a successful test run using a hi-torque wrench

The major challenge here was managing the removal and installation under a 280-tonne load, without compromising safety or stability. Careful and methodical planning and the use of NDT-tested jacking stools allowed for safe temporary support while the crane handled the failed component, ensuring a successful outcome for our client.