Ten simple maintenance tips to maximize bearing performance.

Avoid Overheating

Never bring a flame in direct contact with a bearing during heat mounting operations. Hold a heated bearing stationary until it cools; otherwise, the bearing may creep away from the proper position.

Use The Right Tool

Induction heaters, oil injection kits, and hydraulic nuts are among the specialized tools available for bearing mounting and dismounting. These tools speed up the mounting / dismounting process and lower the possibility of bearing damage.

Handle With CareAlways handle bearings as the precision components they are. Small cracks and nicks will lead to poor bearing performance, and eventual bearing failure. Do not bring sharp objects into contact with a bearing, and never pound directly on a bearing or a ring. Do not install a bearing if it has been dropped or mishandled. Store bearings horizontally in a dry, clean place in their original package. Avoid exposing bearings to air-borne contaminants, as a speck of dirt in a raceway can lead to premature failure.

Inspect Shaft and Housing

Always inspect the shaft and housing for size and physical condition before mounting a bearing. Check for damage, remove nicks and burrs with emery paper, and wipe them clean with a soft cloth. A shaft placed in a vise for mounting should be protected from vise jaws with sheets of brass, copper, or soft metal.

Same Replacement Bearing

Replacement bearings should be identical to the bearings they replace. Bearing identification usually appears on the bearing and/or the packaging. Contact the manufacturer for part number verification if there is any uncertainty about the replacement bearing.

Watch Bearing Press Fit

In bearing press mounting operations, pressure should only be applied to the ring with a press fit. Pressure to the ring without a press fit damages the raceways.

Do not Wash New Bearings

Bearing manufacturers take great care to package and ship bearings that are dirt-free and ready for specific bearing requirements. There usually is not a need to wash bearings or remove their protective slushing compound. Exceptions arise when you use a polyurea grease or synthetic operating lubricant, as use of these lubricants may require removal of the slushing compound.

Proper Lubrication is Critical

Bearing manufacturers evaluate several factors before determining the type of lubricant required for specific bearings, so be sure to follow manufacturer recommendations. Check lubrication levels frequently and change lubricant at least once a year. Temperature and contamination conditions influence the lubrication interval.

Rotate Idle Bearing

Bearings installed in equipment that is subject to vibration while the shafts are stationary may incur false brinelling damage. False brinelling also occurs when equipment is not properly protected during shipment. Brinelling can appear as bright polished depressions on the inner and/or outer races, as well as on the rolling elements. Guard against this by periodically rotating bearings.

Look for Danger Signs

Keep alert for these sure signs of improper bearing operation: excessive noise, or an increase in vibration and/or temperature. Bearings exhibiting any of these symptoms should be checked frequently for deterioration and possible removal. Troubleshooting instruments like handheld vibration pens, thermometers can help to spot bearings.