2017

NTN bearings that support rolling stocks contribute to safe and comfortable rail travel

NTN Corporation (hereafter, NTN) supplies bearings for cruise train “TRAIN SUITE Shiki-shima” that East Japan Railway Company start its operation on May 1. The “TRAIN SUITE Shiki-shima” is a deluxe excursion sleeper train that provides a variety of enjoyable journeys in which passenger can experience the rich and beautiful nature of Japan and also the thriving culture through industry and everyday life from the region during the “passage of abundant time and space” that is so unique to trains. The train will run various routes mainly in the eastern Japan district.

NTN bearings support the rotation of the journals and traction motors on the “TRAIN SUITE Shiki-Shima.” For journal bearings, NTN has total supply over three types of highly reliable bearings designed exclusively for the railcar (head and non-driving cars) and trailer cars. For main traction motor bearings, NTN supplies insulated bearings with a special PPS*¹ resin (glass fiber mixture) which are resistant to electric pitting electrolytic corrosion. Supplying these type of bearings allows the train to run safely and comfortably even during the various weather and geographical conditions which change during travels and it also contributes towards improved maintainability and the stable operation of the rolling stocks.

NTN rolling stock bearings have been used on the Shinkansen train since it first operation in 1964 as the 0 series up to the latest trains (Hokuriku Shinkansen*²) in addition to use on subway trains and limited express trains. NTN has contributed towards faster speed and lighter weight for rolling stocks by providing a high quality product and technological development that matches the evolution of high-speed rolling stocks. The 0 series Shinkansen were also recognized as a “Tribology Heritage*³” by the Japanese Society of Tribologists.

NTN will continue to support the safe and comfortable running of rolling stocks and provide the safer and more secure lives to achieve a “smooth society” that that contribute to save energy.

1. PPS:Polyphenylene sulfide
2. [Congratulations: Opening of Hokuriku Shinkansen] NTN bearings contributing to safe and comfortable high-speed operation press release
   https://www.ntnglobal.com/en/news/press/news201500015.html
3. Tribology Heritage: Tribology related technology and things recognized by the Japanese Society of Tribologists as having a particularly important contribution to the development of science and technology

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