“The original system, constructed in 1858, comprised of a basin filled with mercury in which the light floated to allow almost frictionless rotation,” explained John Henderson, Ocean Kinetics’ managing director. “As a result, a very lightweight clockwork mechanism was used to rotate the light.”
However, this configuration was deemed a little hazardous for modern engineering standards and so Ocean Kinetics approached R.A. Rodriguez to supply a suitable bearing-only solution.
After a full assessment of the application by R.A. Rodriguez, it was suggested that a gearless turntable bearing from the company’s 948mm KDL.U series would offer the solution thanks to its superior quality and load capacity capabilities.
The turning part of the lamp weighed several hundred kilograms and it was not an easy task to replace the mercury. However, the turntable bearing was successfully mounted in the slightly curved basin above the pedestal.
“KDL series four-point contact bearings have met requirements in various approved and economical turntable applications for many years. These bearings are robust and proven in the toughest applications, ensuring that axial/radial loads and tilting moments can be absorbed,” said Dave Young, Northern area & product manager at R.A. Rodriguez. “According to Ocean Kinetics, the bearing produced a nice feel when rotated, which is an indication of its build quality. This is particularly important in lighthouse lamps where continuous, steady movement is a prerequisite.”
