1, Steer clear of improper handling, mounting and storage
Bearings should be stored horizontally in their original packaging in a clean, dry and room temperature environment. Even while they’re being stored on shelves, the bearings can still experience harmful vibration because of the facility’s daily operations so it is important to store the bearings in an area not exposed to vibration.
Bearings are delicate components and should be treated with care. Consequently, components that have been dropped shouldn’t be used, as this could lead to premature failure. Additionally, appropriate equipment should be used when handling and mounting bearings. Tools that are not specialised for use during the bearing mounting and dismounting process can cause damage, denting and wear. Bearing pullers or induction heaters for example, are designed specifically for bearings. Making sure the bearing is mounted properly will avoid equipment imbalance and misalignment.
2, Don’t overload the bearing
When selecting the bearing to best fit your needs, it’s important to remember that inappropriate loads cause increased fatigue and risk of bearing failure. To get the best life ratings from your bearings, limit the actual load to between six and twelve per cent of the bearing’s dynamic load rating.
The more the bearing is overloaded, the shorter the bearing life. Overloaded bearing components will experience premature wear. These bearings should be replaced to safeguard the surrounding equipment.
While overload can be a result of the incorrect specification at the design phase, some overloading may occur due to changes in production requirements, environmental conditions, or operator error. For example, if a steel bearing is heated above the limit that it is designed for, this can permanently deform or soften the bearing material, resulting in a reduced load carrying capacity and leading to equipment failure.
3, Avoid contamination
Contamination in the form of dust or dirt entering the bearing’s raceway is problematic. Therefore, choosing a closure that protects against these foreign particles entering the bearing and keeps the lubrication inside, is crucial. Closures should be expertly matched to the application, depending on the operating environment.
Firstly, choose closures that will withstand the environmental and operating conditions. Routinely check bearing seals for hardening or wear. Inspections should also be carried out for lubrication leaks. When conducting maintenance, try to avoid using steam cleaning methods or high-pressure sprays. This may be difficult in the food and beverage industry so sealed bearings with a washout resistant lubricant are recommended. If maintenance isn’t conducted appropriately, it can do more harm than good. In fact, it is easy to damage seals and force contaminants into clean equipment if not handled correctly. This is where condition monitoring such as vibration analysis can provide vital insight into the bearing’s operating condition and alert an operator to any changes without invasive action.
4, Limit corrosion
Wearing gloves will ensure that perspiration or other liquids do not affect the bearing in low-corrosive environments. Corrosion occurs primarily when the bearings have been exposed to water or more corrosive liquids. In some cases, it leads to etching on the surface, which will eventually develop rust. Flaking and cracks in the bearings can then follow. Common signs of corrosion are dark coloured or reddish-brown areas on the balls and raceways. Eventually, you may see pitting of the raceway surfaces. While the material choice is a crucial first step to combatting corrosion, preventative measures such as the use of lubricants with rust inhibitors are also recommended.
5, Use the correct lubrication for the bearing
Standard lubrication will do its bit in reducing friction and dissipating heat. However, this lubricant may not satisfy the maximum running speed, torque level and temperature requirements of your application. Specialist lubrication may be required.
Similarly, if the lubrication quantity isn’t sufficient, the balls, retainers, and raceways will have metal-on-metal contact, and friction will wear down the bearings.