Supporting the surge in global shipping

BEARINGS ARE the quiet workhorses of maritime operations. They keep machinery running smoothly — whether it's in a crane hoist, an engine room or an automated conveyor system.

Shipping routes are getting longer and more unpredictable. Conflict zones, climate impacts and supply chain bottlenecks are forcing ships to detour, adding time and cost. In fact, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported a 4.2% rise in ton-miles in 2023 as vessels sailed further to avoid chokepoints. This puts extra pressure on ports to speed up unloading and keep schedules tight.

Automation raises demands on component performance

Automation is part of the answer. From remote-controlled cranes to self-organising yards, the systems in use today are more advanced and more demanding than ever before. This shift raises the bar for components like bearings, which need to deliver exceptional durability and precision in high-pressure, high-load environments.

In these conditions, standard bearings don’t always cut it. Saltwater, vibration, heat and constant use take a toll. That’s why many operators are switching to ceramic or hybrid bearings, which last longer, require less maintenance and perform better under extreme stress. In critical applications, they help reduce costly downtime and unplanned repairs.

Take DP World, for example. It’s among the global logistics companies leading the automation roll-out, in this case across 14 terminals in the Americas. In Vancouver, Canada, its cranes are already 80% automated. In Brazil, similar upgrades are underway. These automated systems depend on bearings that can go the distance without frequent servicing.

Smart bearings enable predictive maintenance

As ports get smarter, so do bearings. New sensor-equipped designs are helping engineers track performance in real time. By monitoring temperature, vibration and load, these smart bearings support predictive maintenance strategies that reduce unplanned stops and extend service life.

The benefits of smart bearings aren’t limited to uptime. They also help ports hit sustainability targets by optimising machine usage and reducing energy consumption. When friction is minimised and component wear is tracked accurately, equipment runs more efficiently, cutting unnecessary load on motors and systems. Over time, this adds up to measurable energy and cost savings.

Different tasks call for different bearing types. Low noise deep groove ball bearings work well in electric motors and pumps. 316 grade stainless steel or full ceramic bearings resist salt spray and wear, making them ideal for deck equipment. Angular contact bearings are strong under combined loads while needle rollers are great for compact spaces with high radial force. Thin-section bearings are used when weight and smooth rotation matter most.

Total cost of ownership over upfront price

But specifying the right bearing isn't just a technical decision, it’s a business one. Poor component choice can result in shorter lifespans, increased maintenance costs and even equipment failure. That’s why many ports and shipping operators now work closely with bearing specialists to ensure the right fit for each application.

For instance, in automatic stacking cranes, bearings must deal with repeated stop-start cycles and variable loads. Choosing a bearing with the correct dynamic load rating and seal design can significantly reduce the risk of early failure. Similarly, for shipboard engines operating around the clock, low-friction hybrid bearings can improve energy efficiency and extend service intervals.

Procurement teams are also starting to treat bearings as part of wider asset performance strategies. Rather than focusing solely on upfront cost, the emphasis is shifting to total cost of ownership. Bearings that last longer, require fewer interventions and reduce machine wear may be more expensive upfront,  but they can pay for themselves many times over in reduced downtime and maintenance.

Chris Johnson is MD at SMB Bearings

For more information: 

www.smbbearings.com

Tel: 01993 842 555