NTN announced that it will launch its talking bearings on the market in fiscal 2028. Development has been under way since 2022, and the company has indicated that commercialization is now feasible after validating effectiveness with multiple companies.
The talking bearing developed by NTN incorporates MEMS sensors that accurately detect vibration, temperature and rotational speed, then communicates the condition of the bearing and equipment through a communications function. The current range covers outer diameters from a minimum of 90 mm and inner diameters of 40 mm to maximum outer and inner diameters of 160 mm and 75 mm, respectively. Heat resistance has also been improved to 100°C, while an integrated generator and wireless communications function eliminate the need for wiring.
Operational improvements are also under way. Whereas 1 PC was previously required for each bearing, up to 5 bearings can now be monitored with 1 PC, and a dedicated communications device is also being developed. In light of dust and security-related issues, a space-saving system configuration has been adopted.
Test marketing has been conducted with 7 companies since 2024, covering motors, pumps and fans for industrial machinery. Some evaluation sites have reported that equipment overhaul intervals were extended to more than twice their previous length, while annual maintenance costs were reduced to less than half. Further improvements and preparations for mass production are under way for the fiscal 2028 launch.
The technology is scheduled to be exhibited at JIMTOF 2026, the Japan International Machine Tool Fair, and developments toward broader adoption are attracting attention.