How to extend the service life of bearings?

In theory, the service life of rolling bearings in equipment is 20000~80000 hours. However, the actual life depends on many factors -- premature bearing failure will lead to costly equipment shutdown, and sometimes even lead to more serious consequences.

First, the right bearing selection

Satisfactory bearing life begins with correct bearing selection. From the beginning, bearing designers extend bearing life and equipment performance by selecting the right bearings for different applications. This process takes into account many factors, such as load, hardness, bearing life prediction, operating environment and so on.

Two, correct storage

In principle, all bearings should be stored in their original packaging before installation. They need to be kept in a clean, moisture-free environment with a relatively constant temperature.

Rolling bearings should be kept away from dust, water and corrosive chemicals. Shaking and vibration may permanently damage the mechanical properties of bearings, so vibration must be avoided in the process of handling and storage.

Basically, all bearings must be stored horizontally, because some heavier bearings may deform due to their own weight after being placed vertically for a long time.

Pre-greased (or sealed) bearings require special care because the density of grease changes after a long time of storage. In this way, when the bearing is used for the first time, there will be a certain degree of rotation noise. Therefore, the shelving time of this bearing should be controlled according to the principle of first in first out.

Third, careful installation and disassembly

The appropriate installation method (mechanical or hydraulic) and tools should be selected according to different applications and bearing sizes and types. As with installing a bearing, the removal of a bearing should be carefully prepared. During the removal process, make sure that adjacent components such as the shaft and sleeve are not damaged. Appropriate methods and tools should be selected according to the type, size and application of bearings.

Correct preservation, careful installation and disassembly, sufficient lubrication and re-lubrication, correct condition monitoring, timely maintenance, and finally perfect personnel training are very important to improve the service life of bearings and equipment performance.