Wheelbearing failed

Failing bearings can make unusual noises, such as high-pitched squealing or grinding noises. The best method for using noise to indicate bearing failure is subjective. It's necessary to pay attention to the noises of a properly functioning bearing to know when something sounds wrong.

Bearings heat up during operation. An acceptable bearing temperature for many bearings is 82 °C (180 °F) or lower (please look at the bearing manual for product specific temperature ratings). Because a bearing reduces frictional forces between rotating machine parts, a failing or failed bearing leads to more friction and higher operating temperatures. Therefore, regular temperature testing using temperature sensors, such as an infrared temperature sensor, is necessary. If an abnormal high temperature is detected, it is a sign to replace the bearing before it fails.

The most common reason for bearing failure is due to lack of lubrication. Bearings require precise lubrication to operate correctly. The bearing can fail from the following:

Types ofbearingfailures

Bearing failedsymptoms

Bearing contamination can occur in several ways. One of the most common ways is during relubrication maintenance. Poor seals can allow foreign contaminants to mix with the lubricant. Also, high-pressure washing a bearing can emulsify the lubricant. Ultimately, contaminants lead to abrasion, greatly reducing the bearing's lifetime. If any contaminants are seen while inspecting the bearing, it should be replaced.

The first sign of bearing failure is excessive vibration. Following this, the bearing will begin to heat up past acceptable levels and produce excessive noises, either high-pitched or grinding.

What is the most common cause ofbearingfailure

Bearing failure is a serious issue because spinning components in a machine can come grinding to a halt, leading to significant damage. Fortunately, several common symptoms allow the detection of a bearing failure before it is too late. The first sign of bearing failure is excessive vibration. Following this, the bearing will begin to heat up past acceptable levels and produce excessive noises, either high-pitched or grinding. This article overviews these symptoms, discusses how to analyze them, and provides a few common examples of bearing failure.

Bearings lower frictional forces caused by spinning components in machines. Bearing failure quickly increases frictional forces, leading to significant temperature increase and extreme wear and tear.

Bearingfailure symptoms

Many ball bearing designs use a cage surrounding the individual rolling elements to keep them aligned. Cage damage leads to cage failure and will quickly lead to overall bearing failure. Ball bearing cage failure typically occurs in four stages:

Cal-Van & Horizon Tool Inc.7900 Industrial Village Rd.Greensboro, NC 27409Phone: 800-537-1077Fax: 800-537-1717Email: info@calvantools.net

Always check the bearing's manufacturer's instructions before conducting any lubrication-related maintenance. Portable grease analysis kits are available to test the lubrication even in remote locations.

Excessive vibration from a failed bearing can be due to a number of reasons. For example, abrasion can damage the raceway causing the rolling elements to bounce around. Slight differences between individual rolling elements caused by machining errors during bearing manufacturing can also cause vibration. There are various tools and methods designed for testing bearing vibration. If you notice abnormal vibration that has increased over time, it is typically a good indicator that the bearing should be replaced. For more information regarding bearing vibration, please read the ISO 15242 standard to learn more.

Designed to remove and pull bearings in tight applications. Can remove thin faced & cone shape gears and has a beveled edge that can be easily placed behind part to secure gripping surface.