
The ArcelorMittal Group is one of the world’s leading steel producers, with a global network of production and processing sites. The company is renowned for high-quality steel products, innovative material solutions and a high level of industrial performance. ArcelorMittal supplies numerous key industries and sets standards in efficiency, sustainability and technological advancement in steel production.
In crushing plants within the steel industry, plain bearings play a central role in supporting heavily loaded shafts. They are constantly exposed to extreme radial forces, impact loads and abrasive media such as dust and scale. Added to this are vibrations, temperature fluctuations and, at times, critical lubrication conditions.
In operation, this combination frequently leads to increased wear, reduced service life and rising maintenance costs. At the same time, the time slots for overhauls are tightly scheduled. Delays have a direct impact on production availability.
What is therefore required is a solution that not only withstands the mechanical stresses but also functions reliably under real operating conditions and is available precisely at the scheduled overhaul time.
‘It is not the individual component that matters, but an understanding of the application as a whole. Only then can a solution be developed that really works in practice.’
Harald Nitzschke, CEO ttv
The large plain bearings developed by ttv are designed on the basis of real operating data. High-strength bronze and special alloys are used, which reliably withstand high contact pressures and sudden load peaks.
Geometry and wall thicknesses are optimised to ensure that loads are distributed evenly and critical stresses are reduced. Integrated lubrication and emergency running properties ensure stable operation even under boundary and
mixed friction conditions.
The project demonstrates just how crucial it is to precisely coordinate all influencing factors. The solutions are relevant not only for steelworks, but also for applications in mining, the cement industry, recycling and heavy engineering.
Sonderanfertigung mit getesteter Performance
In enger Abstimmung zwischen dem Vertriebsteam von VALVOtec und den technischen Ansprechpartnern bei ttv wurden mehrere Prototypen entwickelt, getestet und optimiert. Die Ergebnisse überzeugten: Während die herkömmliche Dichtung durchschnittlich 20.000 Brühzyklen erreichte, hält die ttv-Sonderlösung bis zu 40.000 Zyklen durch – eine Verdopplung der Standzeit und ein klarer Wettbewerbsvorteil für VALVOtec.

The projects require close coordination between maintenance, engineering and manufacturing. Following an analysis of the existing bearings and damage patterns, the large-scale custom components are designed and manufactured. Timing is crucial: delivery must be precisely aligned with the maintenance window.
In line with its ‘Beyond Supply’ philosophy, ttv takes on not only the technical solution but also the coordination of design, manufacturing and on-time delivery – ensuring reliable implementation within defined downtime periods.
Measurable operational benefits
The customised plain bearings increase service life and reduce wear, even under extreme conditions. At the same time, maintenance requirements are reduced. For operators, this means higher plant availability, better predictability of maintenance windows and sustainably reduced operating costs.

Whether agricultural machinery, construction machinery, forestry technology, drive technology, mechanical engineering, automotive or aerospace, we are ready for your challenges. With our engineering solutions, we manage to offer added value in all decisive product parameters through solutions developed specifically for customers and applications. Get to know our competence and best examples in the most diverse markets.