In 2025, it’s almost impossible to go through everyday life without encountering artificial intelligence in some form. Even the cover of this magazine was created using AI, reflecting how the technology is already influencing our industry.
According to a 2023 study by workforce software company UKG, 78% of C-suite leaders reported that their organisations are already using AI.
According to Anthony Cardillo, 78% of global companies now use AI regularly. To prove a point, this statistic was initially researched using OpenAI’s ChatGPT. AI is becoming an essential part of modern life, but is that a cause for concern? And what might it mean for the bearing and power transmission industry?
While many discussions around AI focus on the potential negatives, such as job losses and privacy issues, there are already plenty of positive applications within our sector.
Predictive maintenance: avoiding costly downtime
AI-driven condition monitoring is changing how companies manage bearing performance and machine uptime. By analysing real-time data from sensors in bearings, couplings and gearboxes, such as vibration, temperature and load, AI can identify early warning signs of potential failures before they happen.
SKF’s ‘Rotation For Life’ programme is a good example of this technology in action. It uses AI to monitor key performance indicators and alert engineers to possible issues. This shift from reactive maintenance to predictive maintenance leads to better reliability and lower total cost of ownership.
AI-powered customer support
Although not exclusive to our industry, AI-powered customer support has grown significantly since 2020. It’s estimated that up to 80% of routine customer service questions are now handled by chatbots (SmythOS 2024). While this reduces the amount of human interaction, a 2024 survey by Getzowie found that more than 70% of customers prefer using self-service chatbots before contacting a live agent.
Speed and convenience were the top reasons given. Many users also said they appreciated the sense of control and familiarity they felt when interacting with AI-powered systems. As chatbot technology continues to improve, especially in understanding context and tone, users are increasingly confident they’ll receive useful responses.
That said, when you use the BearingNet or FluidPowerNet Live Chat feature, you’re always speaking to a real person. A member of our team will look into your query in real time, ensuring you get the most from your membership.
AI on BearingNet and FluidPowerNet
AI is currently used in a limited way on BearingNet, but it plays a more active role on FluidPowerNet. The search function, for instance, uses AI to provide faster, more accurate results by analysing part numbers, brands and descriptions all at once. This means members can find what they need more efficiently than ever before.
Finally, take a look at the two images below. One was created by AI, the other by a member of the BearingNet marketing team. Can you tell which is which?
More importantly, how do you think AI will shape the future of the bearing and power transmission industry? We’d love to hear your thoughts.
Source: Best Bits
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