How to Prevent Bearing Failures?
Introduction
To avoid recurrent failures and their accompanying costs, it is crucial to identify the cause of a bearing failure accurately. In this article, we will talk about common types of bearing failures, their causes, and effective corrective measures.
Smearing and Scuffing
One type of bearing failure is smearing and scuffing, characterized by a rough surface and small deposits. Causes include inadequate lubrication, entrapped foreign particles, misaligned bearings, and excessive slippage of rolling elements.
Correction of Smearing and Scuffing
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Reevaluate lubricant type and lubrication method
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Bolster sealing performance
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Review preload and service conditions
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Improve assembly methods and handling
Fretting and Fretting Corrosion
Partial chipping of inner and outer rings or rolling elements defines fretting and fretting corrosion. Causes include insufficient interference, small oscillation angles, inadequate lubrication, and vibration during transport.
Correction of Fretting and Fretting Corrosion
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Select a different bearing type
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Choose a different lubricant
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Review interference and apply lubricant to fitting surfaces
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Pack inner and outer rings separately for transport
Flaking
Flaking occurs due to excessive load, fatigue life, improper handling, mounting, insufficient clearance, contamination, rust, improper lubrication, and temperature-related hardness drop.
Correction of Flaking
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Select a different bearing type
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Reevaluate clearance and precision in shaft or housing
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Review application conditions
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Improve assembly methods and handling
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Reevaluate the layout around the bearing
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Review lubricant type and lubrication methods
Peeling
Patches of minute flaking or peeling, with hairline cracks visible, are indicative of peeling. Causes include foreign matter infiltration and insufficient lubrication.
Correction of Peeling
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Reevaluate lubrication type and methods
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Improve sealing performance to prevent foreign matter infiltration
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Ensure smooth operation
Spalling
Spalling is marked by scores accompanying seizing, axial direction mounting scores, scratches on raceway surfaces, and rolling contact surfaces. Causes include poor mounting practices, oil film discontinuation, slippage, and poor lubrication.
Correction of Spalling
- Improve mounting and removing procedures
- Enhance operational conditions
- Correct pre-load
- Select adequate lubricant and lubrication system
- Improve sealing efficiency
Rust and Corrosion
Rust and corrosion manifest as a lack of luster, a matted and rough surface, or evenly dimpled areas. Causes include poor storage conditions, packaging, insufficient rust inhibitors, and penetration by water or acid.
Correction of Rust and Corrosion
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Implement measures to prevent rust during storage
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Periodically inspect lubricating oil
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Improve sealing performance
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Enhance assembly methods and handling
Creeping
Creeping results in partial chipping of inner and outer rings or rolling elements. Causes include insufficient interference, improper sleeve fastening, abnormal temperature rise, and excessive loads.
Correction of Creeping
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Reevaluate interference
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Review usage conditions
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Assess the precision of the shaft and housing
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Address raceway end panel scuffing
Conclusion
Understanding the various types of bearing failures, their causes, and effective corrective measures is essential for maintaining machinery reliability and preventing unnecessary expenses. By implementing proactive measures and continuously monitoring bearing performance, industries can significantly extend the lifespan of their equipment and reduce downtime.
HVH Industrial Solutions is an authorized distributor of Rexnord, Sealmaster, Mcgill, Koyo, IKO, AMI, Browning, and many other bearing manufacturers. We work closely with their engineering team to provide superior customer service and engineering support.
If you have any questions, write to us via live chat or call or send us a quote request. The HVH team is always ready to help you.
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