Common Bearing Problems and How to Prevent them

Bearings are small, but they play an invaluable role in keeping industrial machinery running smoothly. Improper lubrication, contamination, corrosion, overload, improper handling, etc. are common causes of bearing problems. Here are five steps to avoid bearing problems:

• Take Care of Improper Handling, Mounting and Storage - Bearings should be stored horizontally in their original packaging in a clean, dry and room temperature environment. Even when stored on shelves, bearings can still be exposed to harmful vibrations due to the facility’s daily operations, so it is crucial to store them in an area free from vibration. Bearings must be treated with utmost care. Appropriate equipment should be used when handling and mounting the bearings.

• Avoid overloading the Bearing - When selecting a bearing for your needs, consider that excessive loads can lead to bearing failure. The more a bearing is overloaded, the shorter its lifespan. Overloaded bearings may fail prematurely due to factors like unclear design instructions, changes in production requirements and environmental conditions. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure they meet your requirements before the installation.

• Prevent Contamination - Dust or dirt entering the bearing’s raceway can cause problems. It’s essential to choose a closure that protects against foreign particles entering the bearing. Select closures that match the application’s specific environmental and operating conditions. Regularly inspect lubrication leaks, as inappropriate maintenance can do more harm than good. Damaging seals and contaminants can harm the equipment, making condition monitoring, such as vibration analysis, vital for assessing the bearing's operating condition.

• Limit Corrosion - Wearing gloves can prevent perspiration and other liquids from affecting the bearing in low-corrosive environments. However, applications like food processing, chemical manufacturing, pharmaceutical production and marine use may require corrosion-resistant bearings. The choice of materials is crucial in combating corrosion and preventive measures like proper lubrication are recommended.

• Use the Correct Lubrication for Bearing - Standard lubrication reduces friction, but it may not meet the speed, torque and temperature requirements of the application. Specialist lubrication may be necessary. Inadequate lubrication can lead to wear in balls, retainers and raceways. Overfilling bearings with grease can cause overheating. The choice of lubrication should consider application conditions, lubrication viscosity, load, temperature and contamination prevention.

Premier Bearings is the leading FAG Bearings Distributor in India. We offer a wide range of bearings from top manufacturers like Schaeffler, Bonfiglioli and Dodge Industrial. To get more details about our products and services, visit our website https://www.premierbearing.com/

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