SKF Core, a new integrated hardware platform, simplifies deployment of SKF Insight bearings, powered by fiber-optic sensing technology, and expands bearing intelligence applications. This, and other SKF solutions, will be showcased at AMB 2026 in Stuttgart.

SKF has selected fiber-optic sensing specialist Sentea as its partner for the development and production of SKF Core, a new integrated hardware platform that supports the next generation of SKF Insight bearings. The collaboration represents an important step in the commercialization and scaling of SKF’s pioneering bearing intelligence technology, helping customers improve productivity, reliability and machine performance through deeper insight into machine operating conditions. SKF Insight bearings provide machine builders and industrial operators with direct visibility into operating conditions such as loads, speeds, temperatures and vibrations, beyond the limits of conventional monitoring technologies. By transforming data from inside the bearing into actionable intelligence, the solution helps customers optimize machine performance, improve process stability and identify potential issues before they impact production. The latest generation of SKF Insight bearings expand these capabilities with new insights into lubrication conditions, contact pressures and bearing health. Together, these capabilities support a shift from reactive maintenance towards more proactive and predictive maintenance, optimization, protection and control of critical equipment, supporting customers to design the next generation machining center. “Customers are increasingly looking for ways to improve productivity, reduce unplanned downtime and maximize the performance of their equipment. SKF Insight bearings give them a new level of visibility into what is happening inside the machine, enabling better decisions and greater confidence in operation”, says Mark Verbakel, Head of SKF Insight bearings. The new SKF Core simplifies deployment by integrating sensing, processing and communication capabilities into a single industrial unit. This reduces system complexity and makes it easier for customers to adopt advanced machine intelligence solutions at scale. “Together with SKF, we are helping bring advanced fiber-optic sensing technology into industrial applications where improved reliability, efficiency, and predictive maintenance capabilities can create significant customer value”, says Karsten Verhaegen, CEO of Sentea. “Our technology enables fiber-optic sensing to be deployed at scale, and the collaboration with SKF closely aligns with our ambition to bring fibre-optic sensing everywhere."