NTN Boosts Bearing Torque Prediction Accuracy

[Counterman]

NTN Corp. has developed a torque calculation method for oil-lubricated ball bearings that increases calculation accuracy by up to 50% at high rotational speeds, according to the company. The technology is being implemented in

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proprietary calculation programs to support low-torque bearing design for electric and hybrid vehicle motors and gearboxes.

Product development and technical approach

The method analyzes the raceway surface by separating contact and non-contact regions as balls pass along the raceway. Conventional approaches modeled only the contact region; the new approach incorporates both to quantify torque-generating factors and clarify how each factor contributes to torque increase.

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, the result is a formula that holds across a wide range of operating conditions, improving high-speed prediction accuracy. The approach enables faster validation of internal bearing design options targeted at low-torque performance.

Market impact for EV and HEV drivetrains

As EV and HEV programs push higher rotational speeds and tighter energy efficiency targets, accurate torque prediction has become a gating factor for bearing selection and system efficiency. By refining preliminary calculations, the method is intended to support low-torque bearing development for traction motors and gearboxes where oil lubrication and high-speed operation dominate.

The company says the method helps identify which internal design strategies are most effective under specific operating conditions. That capability can reduce design iterations and support more targeted product development for electrified powertrains.

Implications for suppliers and manufacturing strategy

NTN reports the improved calculation accuracy will reduce internal workload and accelerate evaluation and proposal processes for EV bearings. Faster analysis can help supplier engineering teams respond to program timelines and align manufacturing plans with validated designs.

The company also plans to extend the approach to other bearing components, including lubricants and cages, to evaluate their impact on torque. NTN says it is leveraging model-based development to enhance research capabilities and speed development cycles.

Distribution and aftermarket considerations

As low-torque bearing designs developed for high-speed EV applications move toward production, distributors and channel partners should monitor specification updates and application guidance. Improved modeling at the design stage can translate to clearer performance data for cataloging, application engineering, and customer support.

Key takeaway for aftermarket product development

For bearing manufacturers and suppliers serving the aftermarket, NTN’s method highlights a trend toward deeper physics-based modeling to manage torque at high speeds under oil lubrication. More accurate torque prediction during early design can inform product launches, reduce redesign risk, and support supplier strategies in the EV and HEV supply chain.

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