FEATURE Industrial AI


The integration of sensors in bearings is part of a wider trend in manufacturing where physical components are becoming digital assets


coming, while prescriptive maintenance goes further by recommending the best course of action.


For instance, if a bearing is showing unusual vibration, the AI system might suggest slowing down the machine temporarily to prevent further damage until a planned replacement can be made. This targeted approach means fewer unnecessary part changes, better use of maintenance resources and fewer  bearing becomes a key player in maximising uptime across the factory.


  By reducing friction, they allow motors to consume less energy and prevent systems from overheating. When bearings operate smoothly, they directly support lower power use and more consistent performance. When this performance data is collected and analysed by AI, manufacturers can gain a clear picture of where energy is being


 are possible. For example, if a production line is consuming more electricity than expected, bearing data has the potential to help pinpoint whether the issue lies in misalignment, lubrication problems or overloading.


This insight is particularly important as manufacturers face pressure to meet sustainability targets. As both regulators and customers expect greener manufacturing, the role of these small components becomes more strategic than ever. Looking forward, intelligent bearings will continue to play a key role as factories


evolve beyond today’s automation. The next step for manufacturing is greater adaptability – systems that can adjust to changes in demand, material supply or environmental conditions with minimal human intervention. For this to happen, machines must be able to sense their own condition and act on that information. Intelligent bearings already provide an example of this. By alerting systems to problems and suggesting actions, they contribute to machines that are not just automated but increasingly self-correcting.


SMB Bearings www.smbbearings.com


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