Failure Modes of Bearings
Bearings are essential components used in many engineering applications, providing optimal load-bearing in a variety of mechanisms. Most bearings are formed of a combination of durable materials such as steel, brass, bronze and various types of plastic, among others. However, bearings are prone to failure over time due to environmental conditions and wear. Even bearing components made of the strongest materials can succumb to degradation if not properly maintained and lubricated. Common failure modes of bearings include fatigue, spalling, wear, fretting and corrosion.
Fatigue
The most common mode of bearing failure is fatigue, in which small cracks form in the surface of the bearing as a result of cyclic loading. This causes the bearing to break into pieces, which can interfere with the smooth operation of the device and cause even more damage. It is important to monitor any signs of fatigue in bearings in order to proactively identify and address any potential problems before they occur.
Spalling
Spalling is another common mode of failure in bearings. It occurs when microscopic particles of material are dislodged from the bearing surface due to intense vibration or other factors. These tiny particles accumulate and form a granular layer on the surface which can interfere with the bearing’s movement and cause it to spall. The particles released by this process can also cause damage to other components in the system.
Wear
Wear is a gradual process which occurs when the bearing’s surfaces are abraded by contaminants. The rate of wear depends on the type of material and the amount of external contamination present. As wear progresses, the surfaces become increasingly smooth and impede the bearing’s movements. This can cause a rough operation or even a complete failure of the bearing.
Fretting
Fretting or corrosion fatigue occurs when metallic particles accumulate on the bearing surfaces and begin to corrode. This corrosion process causes the particles to become weak and crack, causing the bearing to break down slowly but surely. The corrosion process is accelerated if the bearing is exposed to moisture or water.
Corrosion
Corrosion is a common failure mode for bearings. It is usually caused by exposure to water or other chemicals. Corrosion damage is more serious than wear, as it leads to pitting, cracking and other defects which can lead to a failure of the bearing. Corrosion damage can be minimized by regularly inspecting and cleaning the bearings for damage and using appropriate lubricants to protect them from environmental exposure.
In order to reduce the likelihood of bearing failure, it’s important to use high-quality materials, maintain a regular lubrication and inspection schedule, and keep an eye out for the signs of fatigue, spalling, wear, fretting, and corrosion. If any issues are identified, they should be addressed immediately in order to prevent any lasting damage to the bearing and the system.
