SKF announces partner for development of high speed motor and drive electronics

SKF, the leading supplier of bearing solutions world wide, has selected Turbo Genset Inc. to design and manufacture a high-speed motor and associated drive electronics for SKF¡¯s high speed spindles operating on magnetic bearings. The motor and spindles will be used in applications that require high reliability, high power density and very low contamination of the user¡¯s process. The spindle solution is expected in the beginning of 2005 with serial production starting later in the year. The agreement consists of a development and evaluation phase, which is to be followed by an initial production contract. This agreement is a significant step in fulfilling SKF's objective to expand the spindle range with higher power density solutions for various industries and applications. Both SKF and Turbo Genset Inc. see further collaborative opportunities for integrated magnetic bearing and motor drive systems across a wide range of industrial sectors. Commenting on this agreement, Shawn Gibson, Business Development Manager of SKF Magnetic Bearings, said: ¡°SKF is very pleased to come to this agreement with Turbo Genset. We are confident that we will reach our common objectives and succeed with the goal of building new equipment that reaches higher speed and power. We are looking forward to offer this solution to the market, where we believe there is a strong growth for this type of solution.¡±