Fake bearings, real danger: How to fight back in 2017

By Mike Santora

2016 saw sustained strength within the counterfeit bearings market. While global initiatives by companies like SKF and groups like the World Bearing Association have helped slow the bleeding, experts say there is still much to be done. Here is part one of a two part story on what fighting counterfeit bearings will look like in 2017.

 

Early last year, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development reported that the import of pirated or counterfeit goods was nearing half a trillion dollars for 2016. That represents 2.5% of global imports. The OECD reports that much of that sizable economic drain comes in the form of luxury consumer goods. And while knock off purses and fake footwear are bad for businesses, they rarely endanger a consumer’s safety. Counterfeit bearings on the other hand, usher in a much more complex threat. The elevated risks involved with fake bearings increases the stakes for getting counterfeit products off the street as soon as possible.

SKF alone participates in over 100 raids per year so we spoke with the company’s Director, Group Brand Protection, Tina Astrom to learn more about the current state of counterfeit bearings. Here is what she had to say about how industry professionals can protect themselves.

Our conversation, edited for space and clarity, follows:

The basics of fake

Bearing Tips: What are some common tactics counterfeiters use to fool consumers?

Astrom: Well, to start I think I have to explain the channel to the market when it comes to counterfeit bearings. For example, bearings that are not produced from scratch. Bearings are standardized so counterfeiters take the cheapest that are available on the market. Then those are branded in small sweatshops and put into packaging looking identical to SKF, or any other brand for that matter. These bearings are then sold to the market.

Typically, what happens is you have companies in China that spam the market. They create nice websites and then wait for customers to buy from them. When they have an order, it’s handed over to a middle-man, who is then ordering from one of those branding workshops. And so it goes.

Of course, China is dominating. But if you look into the flow of things, I would put quite a bit of blame on companies outside China as well. The retailers and traders in general are the people buying this merchandise. It’s generally known in the bearing market that if you buy certain items there is a very high chance that you’re getting counterfeit goods. It’s the retailers, those that are selling to customers, that are really cheating people. That’s where the lion’s share of the money ends up also.

BT: Outside of China, what other countries are particularly vulnerable? How does the US stack up?

Astrom: It varies considerably. The worst affected areas are Africa and The Middle East. It’s reached double digits in terms of percentage share of counterfeits being available in the market. China, India, Southeast Asia and central America are heavily affected also. They’re in double digits as well. Countries like US and Germany also have many cases too. I would say once a month we have a case where we detect that the customer has accidentally been delivered counterfeit goods.

BT: What is law enforcement support like from country to country?

Astrom: Kenya is a good example. The basic problem is, as in the US and some other western countries, perception is too heavily connected to counterfeit luxury goods. It’s easy to presume that customers buying luxury counterfeit goods don’t really do any harm. It’s not a priority for the police; this idea has not yet landed with law enforcement in the western world.

This is not only a matter of intellectual property infringement, it’s also a matter of substandard products that could potentially have very big risks. Bearings go into electrical power plants, airplanes, elevators, hospital equipment, et cetera. We have had cases in all four of these areas. In the US for instance, there was a case with the New York Metropolitan Transit Authority accidentally buying counterfeit bearings. We also had a case in involving helicopters in the US, where the producer of the helicopter accidentally bought counterfeit bearings.

We have had cases, not in US, but in the western world where a company’s accidentally bought counterfeit bearings that were placed in equipment that was to be used in hospitals. We have a number of issues with power plants as well. To be clear, I’m not saying that US law enforcement is bad, there are many countries that are worse, but counterfeit bearings could receive more attention. I should point out that the US customs authorities are excellent. Top 10 in the world, from my perspective. It’s the local US police enforcement agencies that are less attentive on these issues.

SKF
www.skf.com

SKF Authenticate App

Environmentally safe bearing solutions

Thordon Bearings has expanded its Global Service and Support (GSS) division to meet market demand for installation and maintenance support of its entire product portfolio. GSS now offers more services to assist shipowners, shipbuilders and repair yards with the installation, commissioning, maintenance, and shaft/stern tube alignment services for the full range of oil and grease-free Thordon propeller shaft, rudder and deck bearing products.

TG-100 seals can be easily repaired in-situ, so operators are not required to drydock the vessel to replace component parts. Such was the case recently when a seal was damaged due to an incident in the engine room. Parts were replaced quickly and efficiently to ensure the vessel went back into service swiftly.

There has been a rise in the number of shaft coating projects for new build tankers and bulkers under construction at Asian shipyards. “As more ship owners opt for seawater lubricated bearings, they have to ensure their shafts are protected from corrosion. Our ThorShield shaft protection system is increasingly specified, which is applied by a Thordon GSS Technician to ensure the coating is applied properly so that ship owners can benefit from extended shaft withdrawal inspection periods.”

Andy Edwards, Thordon Bearings’ Commercial Director, said: “We have experienced unprecedented demand for our technologies over the past two to three years. But as the market moves away from traditional oil and grease lubricated bearing systems, with operators increasingly opting for more cost-effective, environmentally sustainable solutions, a comprehensive service network has to be in place to support this growing customer base. We are pleased that the GSS department has been able to meet market demand in such a relatively short timeframe.”

The Thordon Global Service & Support network offers a full scope of bearing installation and commissioning services, oil to water-lubricated bearing conversion management, shaft coating and shaft seal installation and commissioning. GSS will also offer shaft and stern tube measurement and geometrical alignment services for correct positioning of stern tube and bearings.

Thordon Bearings
thordonbearings.com

Keyword: bearing dealer

Ceramic Raschig Ring Packing

The outer diameter and height of the packing ring are equal, the structure is simple, and the price is low, but there are strongholds such as uneven liquid distribution and serious wall flow channeling. Nowadays, corrosion-resistant ceramic Raschig rings are generally used in the acid industry. The main function is to provide a sufficient contact surface for the gas-liquid two-phase.

At present, there are many types of tower packing used in water treatment, including liquid surface covering balls, multi-faceted hollow balls, suspension ball packings, Pall ring packings, etc. Today we will introduce Raschig ring packing, which is also very early Fillers used in water treatment. Ceramic Raschig ring packing is a kind of tower filling material, which has acid and heat resistance, high and low temperature resistance, anti-aging characteristics, and can resist corrosion of various inorganic acids, organic acids and organic solvents except hydrofluoric acid (HF). It is used in various high and low temperature occasions, and is widely used in washing towers, cooling towers, acid recovery towers, desulfurization towers, drying towers and absorption towers in metallurgy, chemical industry, fertilizer, acid production, gas, oxygen production, pharmaceutical and other industries. Features: Due to the high porosity of ceramic Raschig ring packing, large gap, large flux and small resistance, the gas and liquid in the packed tower can pass freely, and the distribution of gas and liquid in the packing layer is relatively good, especially the packing The inner surface of the ring is easily wetted by liquid, no matter what its orientation is, some of the liquid sprinkled on the packing will flow along the outer wall, and some will flow along the inner wall. In this way, the degree of dispersion of the liquid is increased, and the utilization rate of the inner surface of the filler is improved. Therefore, it not only has a large passing capacity and a low pressure drop, but also has a high mass transfer and separation efficiency of the tower.

                                                                                

Keyword: ceramic balls

Ceramic Pipe Tube Introduction​

Ceramic Pipe Tube Introduction

Pingxiang Chemshun Ceramics Co.Ltd is the wear resistant ceramic manufacturer , professionally produce kinds of abrasion resistant ceramic materials for industry equipment wear protection, 

Ceramic pipe tube is popular, cost-effective wear resistant linings for conveying pipeline system , Chemshun Ceramics pipes can be classified by materials: Al2O3 92% & 95% alumina ,silicon carbide ceramic pipes and ceramic rubber pipe;straight pipe, elbow bend pipe, curved pipe tile , trapezoidal pipe tile , T-shape pipe by shapes, 10mm~500mm by sizes .which are widely applied in cement, power generation plant, steel industry, port ,mining and mineral industry and so on.

Keyword: ceramic balls

Activated alumina catalyst carrier performance and function

Activated alumina catalyst carrier for white, spherical porous material;Non-toxic, odourless, not powder, insoluble in water, ethanol.White ball material, special craft production, due to the unique frame structure, so the affinity and the active component is extremely strong, uniform pore distribution, the product aperture size is appropriate, entrance, bibulous rate is high, small bulk density, good mechanical performance, has a good stability.Suitable for push carrier agent.

Activated alumina advantages: activated alumina fluoride in similar to the anion exchange resin, but the fluoride ion selective anion resin is big, live sex alumina adsorption defluorization effect is good, stable capacitance, per cubic meter of activated alumina fluoride absorption 6400 grams, this product has high strength, low abrasion, water the same soft, not expansion, not pulverization, not broken.Can be widely used in petroleum cracking gas, the depth of the dry ethylene propylene gas and hydrogen production, dry air separation device, instrument air drying machine, hydrogen peroxide solution of hydrogen fluoride treatment can remove the sulfur in the exhaust gas and pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, hydrogen fluoride, hydrocarbons, particularly appropriate fluoride water fluoride in processing.

Keyword: ceramic balls

3 Kinds of Wear Resistant Elbow Pipe

Wear-resisting elbow with excellent function has become the new favorite of all walks of life, with its more and more widely used, Let’s know more information about it. Well, let’s begin with its classification. The current wear-resisting elbow is mainly including directly stick ceramic lining wear-resisting elbow, point welding wear-resisting elbow and centrifugal casting wear resistant elbow. And they are distinguished based on the inner wall of elbow.

Directly stick ceramic lining type wear-resistant elbow’s manufacturing process is relatively simple, the alumina ceramic pipe lining pieces or ceramic pipe directly bonded on the inner wall side of steel elbows by the relative specific adhesive material.

Point welding wear-resisting elbow, this elbow is in the patch wear-resisting elbow on the basis of the improvement, the adhesive has a better high temperature resistance function, also it with the patch welding.

Centrifugal casting wear resistant elbow, its tube wall is made of composite ceramic material, it has more advantages than the first two kinds of elbow.

Pingxiang chemshun ceramics co.,ltd specialize in producing elbows with ceramic lining, we also supply the ceramic pipe tiles, ceramic lining pieces, alumina ceramic pipes. For more information welcome to email us [email protected]

Keyword: ceramic balls

2020 China National Holiday

October 1, 2020 is the 71st National Day of the People’s Republic of China, and this day happens to be the Mid-Autumn Festival in 2020. People across the country will enjoy the National Day holiday from October 1-8.


During the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival, as the current situation of the prevention and control of the new crown pneumonia epidemic is stable, people begin to travel out and visit the scenic spots or shopping. At the same time, because the traditional Mid-Autumn Festival is a day of reunion, most people choose to go back to their hometown to reunite with their families and enjoy the joy of family love.


During the National Holiday in 2020, people all over the country spent a happy and peaceful holiday. Thanks to our great motherland for protecting us, we can have happy life today. After experiencing COVID-19, we have learned to cherish life,health and peace. May our motherland get better and better! May people all over the world be healthy and safe.

                                    

Keyword: ceramic balls

Excel 中如何大批量添加标题

本教程适用版本:WPS 365 点击免费使用

本教程适用版本:WPS Office 2019 PC版  点此使用

在利用Excel表格进行日常办公时,表格当中的标题是必不可少的,那么当有些用户需要在表格当中的指定位置批量添加标题时,该如何操作呢,难道需要一行一行的添加吗,当然不必,今天小编就来教大家如何在Excel表格当中大批量添加标题的方法,一起来学习一下吧。

首先,在需要添加标题的位置输入数字1,选中数字栏,如下图所示,单击工具栏【开始】下的【查找】,在下拉菜单下选择【定位】,或者按快捷键Ctrl+G,直接弹出定位的对话框:

>>免费升级到企业版,赠超大存储空间

弹出定位的对话框,选择常量,单击后选择定位:

>>免费升级到企业版,赠超大存储空间

这样,所有的数字就被选中了,单击右键选择【插入】,在下级菜单当中选择【插入行】:

>>免费升级到企业版,赠超大存储空间

可以看到,所有的数字前全部插入了一行空白行,如下图所示:

>>免费升级到企业版,赠超大存储空间

>>免费升级到企业版,赠超大存储空间

此时选中一行标题,单击右键选择复制,或者按快捷键Ctrl+C快速复制:

>>免费升级到企业版,赠超大存储空间

按住快捷键Ctrl+G弹出【定位】的对话框,单击空值,选择定位:

>>免费升级到企业版,赠超大存储空间

所有空白行全部被选中,单击右键选择粘贴,即可快速插入所有标题,如下图所示:

本教程适用版本:WPS Office 2019 PC版  点此使用

Keyword: wps下载

Detroit's Auto Industry in 2024: A Market Snapshot and Repo

Apr 02/24

Detroit’s Auto Industry in 2024: A Market Snapshot and Report

 

The average Michigan citizen pays over $9,300 a year to own a car. This high cost is most often due to insurance rates.

There’s no denying that automotive manufacturing in Detroit has both challenges and opportunities. US automakers must find their way through shifts in consumer preferences and advancements in automotive technology. Despite the challenges, the industry presents promising prospects for growth and innovation.

Do you want a clearer picture of the Detroit auto industry? If so, read on to learn about what it looks like and what’s in store.

Current State of the Auto Industry

This year, the Detroit auto industry has grappled with various challenges. Economic uncertainties, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions impact production and sales. Auto manufacturers face pressure to adapt to evolving consumer demand and regulatory standards.

Just recently, a bridge collapse affected a major port for automotive deliveries. As many as 850,000 new vehicles make their way through that port every year. The bridge’s collapse called for sudden and major reroutings.

This is why it’s so important to team up with a reliable supplier. You can breathe more easily knowing that contingency plans are in place.

EV Investment and Innovation

Investment in electric vehicles has emerged as a significant trend in Detroit’s auto industry. Auto manufacturers have used resources to develop EV technology and infrastructure.

This strategic shift reflects a growing emphasis on sustainability and reduced carbon emissions.

Opportunities in Automotive Technology

Tech doesn’t stop with electric vehicles. Advancements in automotive technology drive innovation and competitiveness.

Detroit-based companies explore autonomous driving systems, connected vehicles, and artificial intelligence. These technologies enhance safety, efficiency, and user experience in modern vehicles.

Challenges Amidst Automotive Trends

Despite opportunities, Detroit’s auto industry encounters challenges amidst shifting automotive trends. Competition intensifies with the rise of international automakers and tech companies entering the market.

Adapting to changing consumer preferences requires agility and strategic planning. This is possible when you team up with Mayco International.

The Resilience of US Automakers

US automakers demonstrate resilience in navigating industry challenges. Strategic partnerships, research, and development initiatives bolster their position in the global market.

Flexibility and innovation enable US automakers to seize opportunities and overcome obstacles.

Market Outlook and Growth Potential

Despite the challenges, the Detroit auto industry possesses significant growth potential. Investments in EVs, automotive technology, and sustainable practices drive future expansion.

Market trends indicate a gradual shift towards electric and autonomous vehicles, presenting new avenues for growth.

There’s Room for Growth in the Detroit Auto Industry

While the Detroit auto industry has had some trouble, there are signs that this will turn around. Manufacturers who keep their ears to the ground can benefit in the long run.

You can always count on Mayco International for premiere automotive solutions. We specialize in logistics, engineering, tooling services, and more. As a global Tier 1 automotive supplier, we have almost 40 locations in nine countries.

Would you like a quote on manufacturing or another service? If so, don’t wait to discuss the details with a Mayco International representative.

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Keyword: haas machining