Many assets utilise some form of lubricant for their operation. Ensuring this lubricant is in optimal condition reduces wear and tear and improves asset performance.
We provide a practical service to ensure that you are using the correct lubrication in the correct amount at the correct time. We can also assist in oil and grease condition monitoring analysis.
“Bearings are critical components in machinery, and their failure can lead to significant downtime and repair costs. Understanding the common causes of bearing failure can help in implementing preventive measures to extend their lifespan and ensure smooth operation.”
Lubrication analysis can detect:
- Gear faults/wear
- Wrong oil/mixed
- Oil degradation
- Contamination
- Fuel dilution
- Leaking seals
- Bearings
- Overheating
Most Common Causes of Bearing Failures:
Lubrication Issues:
- Improper Lubricant: Using the wrong type of lubricant can result in inadequate film strength and higher operating temperatures.
- Inadequate Lubrication: Insufficient lubrication leads to increased friction and wear.
- Contaminated Lubrication: Dirt, debris, or moisture in the lubricant can cause abrasive wear and corrosion,
Contamination Issues:
- Ingress of Foreign Particles: Dust, dirt, and other contaminants can enter the bearing, causing wear and damage.
- Moisture: Water can cause corrosion and degrade the lubricant, leading to bearing failure.
Excessive Load Issues:
- Overloading: Applying loads beyond the bearing’s design capacity can lead to excessive stress and deformation.
- Shock Loads: Sudden and severe impacts can cause immediate damage to the bearing surfaces.
Installation Issues:
- Misalignment: Incorrect installation can lead to misalignment, causing uneven load distribution and premature wear.
- Incorrect Mounting: Using improper tools or techniques during installation can damage the bearing or its housing.
End of Life Fatigue:
- Material Fatigue: Repeated stress cycles can cause material fatigue, leading to cracks and spalling on the bearing surfaces.
- Rolling Contact Fatigue: Continuous rolling contact under high loads can cause surface fatigue and pitting.
Corrosion Issues:
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to corrosive environments can lead to rust and deterioration of bearing surfaces.
- Electrolytic Corrosion: Electrical currents passing through the bearing can cause pitting and surface damage.
Temperature Extremes:
- Overheating: Excessive heat can degrade lubricants and cause material expansion, leading to loss of clearance and increased friction.
- Cold Temperatures: Extremely low temperatures can cause the lubricant to thicken, leading to inadequate lubrication and increased wear.
