SKF, a global supplier in the areas of bearings, seals, mechatronics, services and lubrication systems, has developed the SKF Wheel End Monitor, which detects early stage wheel bearing damage in heavy-duty trucks, trailers, buses and other commercial vehicles.

The new device is mounted on the outboard side of the vehicle's wheel, and monitors vibration changes. If an impending bearing failure is detected, the driver receives an alert through a flashing red warning signal. The vehicle can then be brought in for immediate inspection and repair.

According to the company, the new product is meant to improve safety and reduce costs, by preventing premature wheel bearing replacement, downtime and replacement of associated equipment that may be damaged in more advanced failures.

"With the SKF Wheel End Monitor, we are providing a product focused on increasing overall vehicle safety by detecting bearing defects before they become a serious issue," said Mike Lewis, director of truck sales, North America.

Attached to the vehicle's wheels via the studs, the device is read by holding a magnet that comes packaged with the SKF Wheel End Monitor unit, to the monitor, activating a blinking signal that informs the user of the bearing's status. A green signal indicates the bearing is defect-free, while red indicates a potential problem.

More info: www.skf.com