SKF to Manage ERG Turbine Fleet

SKF had the opportunity to introduce the Italian company to the concept of planned servicing. As well as existing SKF lubrication systems, new automated lubrication solutions were also included – specifically SKF’s Windlub centralised, automated lubrication upgrade system, which is purpose designed for the wind power generation sector.

Lubrication is a vital maintenance task, especially if manual methods are employed across remote and difficult-to-access sites. For ERG these tasks were becoming more demanding of its resources and the company faced daily issues related to standard maintenance activities.

So SKF introduced their systems to ERG technicians and engineers who began to work in three specific areas: service carried out on existing generator lubrication pump units; installation of automatic lubrication systems for those generators not already fitted with such systems; and finally the installation of automatic lubrication systems for turbine pitch bearings.

SKF provided all necessary tools for the maintenance system upgrade, such as manual and battery operated filling pumps, assortment case boxes, fittings and pipes, the refurbishment of existing pump units and delivery of special after-market kits, each designed in accordance with the original OEM's specifications.

ERG is Italy's leading producer of wind energy with a current installed capacity of 1,814 MW across seven countries.