The wear of bearings installed in various units and mechanisms is influenced by many factors: dynamic loads during shock and shock, heating from friction, temperature drops, exposure to chemicals, dirt, salt. Only regular and systematic inspection of a bearing can promptly identify signs of wear.
Instructions
Step 1
First of all, always pay attention to the extraneous noise that appears during the operation of the unit or mechanism. This is the only indication of bearing wear without any ongoing inspection. It should be borne in mind that the source of noise may not be the bearing, but a completely different part of the mechanism. In any case, the background noise should make you inspect all bearings for wear.
Step 2
If possible, check if the bearing overheats during operation. Too high heating temperature is another sign of wear, but does not characterize it 100%. To confidently diagnose its deterioration, the temperature must be significantly higher than normal for specific operating conditions. Observe safety measures and do not touch a very hot bearing with your hands, so as not to get burned.
Step 3
Check bearing play. The new one should not have any backlash. A worn-out bearing that has worked out its life has a sensitive extraneous knock and free play in the vertical plane. Under load during the operation of the mechanism, such a bearing buzzes very noticeably. Noise should increase with lateral loads.
Step 4
If you need frequent diagnostics of bearings, purchase a specialized device that allows you to determine their wear with 90% accuracy without stopping the operation of the unit or mechanism. The device is very easy to use and does not require any special knowledge or skills from the user. However, the fact of its high cost (about a thousand dollars) makes it unprofitable to purchase it for one-time work.
Step 5
When replacing a worn bearing with a new one, pay special attention to the correctness and accuracy of its installation and mounting. According to statistics, this factor is the cause of accelerated wear in 52% of cases. Tapered roller bearings are especially sensitive to correct installation. On the other hand, when properly installed, the service life of such bearings is very, very long.
Step 6
Also, to reduce the likelihood of premature wear, keep an eye on the lubrication of the bearings. Sealed housing bearings are factory-lubricated for life. Open bearing housings require regular re-greasing with fresh grease. Use only lubricants recommended by the bearing manufacturer.
