Bearing Friction & Prevention

Hello Technicians;

  One of the main moving components in conveyance/machinery is bearings, and they will wear out over time. Preventing premature failure will be key to preventing expensive downtime. Knowing what to look for when you are doing system checks will assist you in the early warning signs that failure is near. In the environment that I work in, we use sealed bearings; the telltale sign for a visual inspection is the “red dust” along the races of the bearings. After that, using a thermal inspection tool, the temperature will be higher than normal. 
 
 

Overload

  Bearings are overloaded when they operate beyond their rated design limits for load, speed or temperature. The greater the overload, the more it shortens bearing life, which may cause the bearing components to fracture. Some overloads may be caused by inappropriate or unanticipated operations due to changes in production requirements or operator error. Overloads can also be a result of improper tension on the transport belt, drive belts and v-belts. Too much tension adds stress to the shafts and bearings, causing them to work harder. In the environment that I work in, this is the number one cause of bearing failure. 

5 Steps to Preventing Bearing Failure…

1. Choose the Correct Bearing Design

  Using the right equipment will increase the life of the machinery and conveyance. Do not improvise and use the wrong parts.

2. Store & Move Bearings Properly

  Most parts cages are in good condition, however, not taking care of the bearings during transport could damage then prior to use.

3. Install Bearings Properly

  I have seen it many times, a technician using a machinist hammer instead off a rubber mallet or dead blow. Use the proper tools when working with bearings, especially when installing them!

4. Lubricate Bearings According to Manufacturers' Guidelines

  One of the main reasons we use sealed bearing s in our environment is due to technicians over-greasing the bearings. Over-greasing them causes the seals to blowout and excess lubricate can get onto customers’ orders.

5. Align Machinery & Conveyance

  Alignment and proper tension will expand the life of the equipment. 

The Importance of Bearings…

  I have used, replaced and worked with many types of bearings in my maintenance career. Indoor to outside environments, both big and small bearings. In the poultry industry that I worked in during the 90’s, we used many types and sizes to accommodate many different types of machinery. I have changed out pillow block bearings the size of house cats to micro-size bearings on precision labeling equipment. The main similarities is that they carry radial/axial loads and take on the friction from the workload. In many cases, bearings are often overlooked when technicians conduct visual and thermal preventative maintenance. 

 

 

  As you read this week’s blog, you now have a better understanding of “Bear Failure”.

The Torrington Company!

  I have this PDF to send out (if the link is no longer available). If you would like a copy of this short guide, 22 pages, I can email it to you!

  I also have a “self-study” guide from Red Vector on Bearings, if you would like this forty page PDF book, I can email it to you.

 

  In Conclusion my friends; what are some of this topics that we talked about here supported your needs? What are some of the challenges in Bearings do you need support on? Over the next few weeks, we will go many different types of Bearings to support your understanding of them.

  I hope that this blog supports your needs and delivered good content for you! Please feel free to leave a comment!

Best Regards. Joe DeLoach