Bearing Failure: 4 Most Common Causes and How to Prevent Them

How to Choose the Right Bearing for Your Machine?

Prior to installation, the appropriate bearing must be carefully selected for the specific application. The selection of ball or roller bearings depends on:

• Rotational speed (RPM),
• Operating conditions (temperature, humidity, dust, etc.),
• Expected lifespan,
• Direction and magnitude of the load.

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Ball bearings excel in high-speed applications, while roller bearings are preferred for heavier loads.

Bearing Failure Analysis for Effective Maintenance

Investigating premature bearing failures is crucial to identify their root cause. Analysis results inform preventative measures that extend bearing life and minimize production downtime.

Insufficient lubrication and overheating, often caused by abnormal operating conditions, are common failure modes. Addressing these issues promptly significantly improves bearing performance and longevity.

Top Reasons Bearings Fail:

• Insufficient lubrication: The leading cause of approximately one-third of all failures.
• Material fatigue: Resulting from overloading, imbalance, and misalignment.
• Incorrect installation: Accounts for up to 15% of failures.
• Contamination: The ingress of water, dust, or metal particles shortens bearing lifespan.

Key Strategies for Preventing Bearing Failures

Maximizing bearing lifespan requires regular maintenance, preventive diagnostics, and proper installation. For companies with limited resources, outsourcing professional maintenance is recommended to minimize downtime and maximize machine availability.

Concerned about bearing failures? Our experts are available to answer your questions and help you choose the ideal bearing for your application.

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