NTN Corporation has introduced a groundbreaking heat treatment innovation called “HA-C,” setting a new standard in bearing technology within the automotive industry. This cutting-edge technique enables bearings to withstand higher loads while being more compact and lighter compared to conventional alternatives. By ensuring dimensional stability at high temperatures, resistance to contaminated lubrication, and exceptional wear resistance, “HA-C” facilitates the downsizing, lightening, and energy efficiency of drive units for automobiles, including e-Axles for electric vehicles (EVs).
As the demand for longer cruising distances and improved efficiency in electric and hybrid vehicles rises, drive units such as e-Axles and transmissions are required to be more compact and operate at higher speeds with low-viscosity lubricants. Consequently, there is a need for bearings that can handle high loads with minimal friction and withstand increased heat generation and wear during high-speed rotation.
NTN’s “HA-C” technology achieves unparalleled high load capacity by utilizing a large number of hard and fine precipitates dispersed throughout the material, resulting in exceptional surface hardness and load-bearing capabilities. This advancement allows for significant downsizing and lightening of drive units without compromising performance. Notable features of the technology include a doubling of static load capacity, a sevenfold improvement in rolling fatigue life under heavy load conditions, enhanced resistance to contaminated lubrication, improved dimensional stability at high temperatures, and remarkable wear resistance.
By integrating “HA-C” into products such as High Speed Deep Groove Ball Bearings and electrical pitting resistant bearings for e-Axles, NTN addresses critical technological challenges in automotive drive units. Through global adoption and promotion of this technology, NTN aims to contribute to the continued advancement of downsizing, lightening, and energy efficiency in automotive drive units worldwide.
