With more than 90 participants from research, industry, and field operations, the inaugural Wind Bearing Forum at Fraunhofer IWES in Hamburg brought together experts on all aspects of wind turbine bearings – from damage mechanisms and test results to solutions for sustainable design and maintenance.
The IMKT contributed with two presentations: Gernot Bayer presented his findings on “False brinelling in pitch bearings: Influence of load, slip and contact dimensions on wear susceptibility,” and Prof. Dr.-Ing. Max Marian provided insights into “Technical and physical investigations of used wind turbine gearbox oils: a perspective for lifetime lubrication?”. The discussions clearly highlighted the importance of tribological challenges for the future of wind energy. In addition to the technical presentations, the forum offered an excellent platform for exchange, networking, and new ideas for cooperation.
We sincerely thank the organizers at Fraunhofer IWES for this successful format and already look forward to the next edition in 2027. ©Photo: Toni B. Gunner
