SKF’s newly redesigned TIH 15 workbench bearing heater proves that size isn’t everything. Weighing just 15kg, it’s the most compact unit in the SKF TIH induction heater range, engineered to fit snugly on a small workbench while delivering high-performance precision heating of components in rotating equipment such as gearboxes, pumps, fans and blowers.
Eddie Martens, SKF Product Manager – MaPro, explains why it is necessary to heat bearings, especially larger unts, before installation: “Bearings are engineered for a tight, interference fit on the shaft to prevent slip or creep during operation. As both scenarios can lead to premature wear or damage, a precise fit is critical to ensure that the bearing and shaft rotate as a single unit, eliminating relative movement under load and supporting reliable performance. However, while the tight fit ensures operational integrity, it can also make installation difficult or even damaging if excessive force is used. Heating the bearing causes the metal to expand, temporarily widening the inner ring so it can slide easily onto the shaft. As it cools, the bearing contracts to form a secure, precision fit that supports long-term performance and reliability.”
Though minimalist in form, the TIH 15 is engineered for maximum versatility. Its ergonomic design accommodates a broad range of closed-circuit component sizes, supporting both horizontal and vertical heating of sealed and pre-greased bearings, ensuring safe and efficient operation across service and maintenance tasks. Eddie Martens elaborates: “Components can be positioned horizontally around one of the inductor pillars or suspended vertically using interchangeable yokes. To maximise flexibility in confined workspaces, the TIH 15 is supplied with three yoke sizes compatible with minimum workbench diameters of 20mm, 40mm, and 50mm.”
At the heart of the TIH 15 is a U-shaped iron core with inductive coils positioned beneath it. These coils generate a fluctuating magnetic field that induces currents within the component, converting them into heat. The system reaches temperatures of up to 250°C while drawing just 1.2 kVA – a testament to its energy-conscious design. “Thanks to advanced engineering with automatic temperature monitoring and shut off, the heating process is exceptionally energy efficient,” emphasises Martens. “It’s not just the low power draw – it’s the combination of intelligent controls and targeted heating that drives overall efficiency.
Safety is another key pillar of the TIH 15’s design, as Martens explains: “Operator safety and comfort is integral to the bearing heater’s design, with all accessories securely stowed in an integrated tray, minimising handling risks, maintaining an organised workspace and streamlining setup to support smooth, uninterrupted operation. Designed for full portability, a compact carry case housing all equipment enables effortless transport across job sites and supports rapid field deployment.”
The TIH 15’s smart engineering also keeps operator wellbeing in mind. Thanks to advanced frequency technology, the bearing heater runs silently, reducing noise-related fatigue and contributing to a quieter, more comfortable working environment, all without compromising performance.
User control on the TIH 15 is both intuitive and versatile, thanks to its user-friendly keyboard panel. Operators can select between two heating modes – Temperature Mode for achieving a target bearing temperature, and Time Mode for scheduled heating cycles. Dual power settings (50% and 100%) enable precise control when heating sensitive components, including shielded bearings and those with metallic inserts.
The fully equipped TIH 15 package includes the bearing heater, a TIH P20 temperature probe, a pair of heat-resistant gloves, a power cable (230V or 120V), an anti-fretting agent (LGAF 3E/0.035) as well as the three removable yokes. An anti-roll support is also supplied to ensure stability during vertical heating.
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SKF is a world-leading provider of innovative solutions that help industries become more competitive and sustainable. By making products lighter, more efficient, longer lasting, and repairable, we help our customers improve their rotating equipment performance and reduce their environmental impact. Our offering around the rotating shaft includes bearings, seals, lubrication management, condition monitoring, and services. Founded in 1907, SKF is represented in approximately 130 countries and has around 17,000 distributor locations worldwide. Annual sales in 2024 were SEK 98,722 million and the number of employees was 38,743. www.skf.com
