Innovative Wireless Bearing Wear Measurement System Launched for Marine Applications

Thordon Bearings has introduced a groundbreaking wireless propeller shaft bearing wear measurement system in collaboration with CSignum, a UK-based underwater communications specialist. Known as the Bearing Condition Monitoring – Wireless (BCM-W) system, it utilizes electromagnetic field signaling (EMFS) technology to transfer data from underwater sensors to monitors above the waterline. This advancement eliminates the need for traditional wired monitoring systems, which are often challenging to install without shaft withdrawal.

The BCM-W system offers a more efficient and cost-effective solution for monitoring bearing clearance of seawater-lubricated propeller shaft bearings. Unlike wired systems that require shaft withdrawal for installation, the BCM-W system can be easily installed in drydock or afloat. By incorporating a non-intrusive sensor bolted onto the vessel’s sterntube or bracket flange, the system transmits bearing clearance information to a topside modem data retrieval unit for analysis.

According to Anthony Hamilton, Thordon Bearings’ Technical Director, the BCM-W system eliminates the need for cumbersome cabling and costly diver inspections. It provides ship operators with accurate bearing clearance data that can be easily accessed and uploaded to a tablet or laptop. While initially developed for seawater-lubricated bearing clearance monitoring, the technology can be integrated with other sensors to offer a comprehensive view of the ship’s hull below the waterline.

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