20.3. 2026
Bearings for hydropower plants
Hydropower plants are among the most reliable sources of clean energy. To operate continuously without interruptions, every component must withstand extreme conditions. Bearings play a crucial role in this process. They must endure heavy loads, ensure smooth operation, and guarantee operational safety.
ZKL provides bearing solutions even for the most demanding operational conditions of hydropower plants. One example is the support of the fast-closing valve in pumped-storage plants.
In many Central European plants, the valve is mounted vertically on two ZKL 232/750CF NEW FORCE spherical roller bearings, complemented by an axial spherical bearing. This arrangement ensures reliable transmission of extreme loads while maintaining smooth operation.
The result is higher load capacity, more even force distribution, and extended service life—a design that withstands long-term operation under extreme loads.
These bearings are not only the result of advanced development and production but also a long-proven solution. For decades, they have reliably operated in hydropower plants across the European Union, contributing to the safe and stable operation of entire energy systems.
Key element of operational safety
The fast-closing valve regulates the flow of large volumes of water to the turbine and primarily serves a safety function. In the event of an emergency, it must immediately stop the water supply, protecting the equipment from damage.In many Central European plants, the valve is mounted vertically on two ZKL 232/750CF NEW FORCE spherical roller bearings, complemented by an axial spherical bearing. This arrangement ensures reliable transmission of extreme loads while maintaining smooth operation.
Dimensions that define the challenge
The demands of this application are reflected in the size and weight of the bearing components:- Each bearing weighs over 3 tons
- Each rolling element exceeds 25 kg
Simulation-based development
The bearing geometry was optimized using advanced computational methods, particularly finite element method (FEM) simulations. These analyses allow for detailed evaluation of deformations, contact stresses, and load distribution across individual bearing components.The result is higher load capacity, more even force distribution, and extended service life—a design that withstands long-term operation under extreme loads.
Quality confirmed by manufacturing and proven in practice
NEW FORCE bearings meet stringent requirements for machining quality, precision, and material properties. They are manufactured at the ZKL Brno plant, equipped with modern turning, grinding, and superfine finishing technologies.These bearings are not only the result of advanced development and production but also a long-proven solution. For decades, they have reliably operated in hydropower plants across the European Union, contributing to the safe and stable operation of entire energy systems.