If everything goes well then in most cases, bearings may not ever be an issue as usually they perform so well. However, in reality, there can be problems with bearings and they may also create certain issues.
However, if you know the right reasons for their failure, then you can also resolve them by referring bearing size compare table (ตาราง เทียบ เบอร์ ลูกปืน, term in Thai) or consulting with Nooseng Co., Ltd. who represents SKF bearing in Thailand. Let us discuss what kind of reasons may create problems in your bearings.
1. Improper lubrication
Almost 80% of the failure of the bearing can be due to improper lubrication. Look for the following:
- Any discoloured rolling elements
- Tracks of rolling-element
- Overheating or excessive wear out in the bearing.
2. Contamination
Contamination can be created by certain foreign substances, which may get into its cleaning solutions or bearing lubricants. These may include –
- Abrasive grit
- Dirt
- Steel chips from any polluted work areas
- Dust
- Dirty hands or tools.
3. Improper mounting
Usually, bearings are press fitted on the rotating ring. Several conditions may cause improper mounting such as:
- Wear
- Denting
- High operating temperatures
- Cracked rings
- Early fatigue
- Premature failure of bearings.
4. Misalignment
Incorrect installation because of loose fittings, bent shafts, out-of-square spacers, out-of-square clamping nuts, and out-of-square shaft shoulders can all end up in misalignment, which can lead to overheating and separator failure.
5. False brinelling
While machinery is not being used, rapid ball movement in a racetrack wears down the lubricant. A lack of rotation in the bearing also prevents new lubricant from returning to the area. False brinelling is the result of both of these circumstances.
6. Corrosion
Corrosion is a kind of abrasive to your finely finished ball and roller bearing surfaces due to the following:
- Moisture
- Acid
- Low-quality or broken-down grease
- Improper wrappings
- Condensation from extreme temperature reversals
- Few other factors.
7. Electrical damage
Constant passage of AC or DC current, even it may be low currents, may lead to electrical damage. You must inspect the bigger portion of the covering or raceway or the circle of the raceway for brownish marks produced parallel to the axis.
8. Fatigue
Overloading, an excessive preload, tight inner-ring fits, and utilizing the bearing past its predicted fatigue life are often the causes of fatigue.
9. Overheating
Inadequate lubrication and high operating temperatures can cause overheating. Grease can bleed (purge the oil) at high temperatures, which decreases the effectiveness of the lubricant.
10. Excessive loads
Putting an extra load on the bearing can also be another common reason of failure. Try to look for heaving rolling-element wear off paths, which is a proof of overheating and excessive loads.
11. Improper storage and handling
Improper storage leaves bearings vulnerable to dust and moisture. Always verify with the grease maker for storage recommendations because storing bearings at temperatures that are too high will shorten the grease’s shelf life.
12. Tight fit
When interference fittings go beyond the radial clearance at operational temperatures, a tight fit may result from the rolling element being overloaded.
Bearing problems and failures do happen quite often than you might anticipate. However, by knowing the cause of the problem you can prevent any bearing failure to happen to your application.