Introduction
Surface defects of bearings play an important role in their operational properties. Bearing surface flaws can arise from a variety of causes, including poor manufacturing processes, poor handling, shock loading, improper installation, inadequate lubrication, and improper maintenance. Bearing surface faults can have significant effects on the bearing’s life and performance, including reduced lubricating characteristics, decreased fatigue strength and reduced bearing efficiencies. Recognizing and assessing surface defects, and minimizing the risks associated with them, is an important part of effective maintenance and repair programs.
The Identification of bearing surface defects
The best method for identifying bearing surface defects is visual inspection. Visual inspection typically begins with the removal of the bearing, if it is not already exposed, followed by a thorough visual examination of its surfaces. Depending on the type of bearing, this may involve removing dust covers, inner races, and other components to provide access to the bearing outer races, inner bores, bearings, and other components that can be affected by surface defects.
Once the bearing is exposed, surface defects can be assessed using visual inspection techniques. These techniques include the use of magnifying glasses, microscopes or other optical tools. When using magnifying tools, it is important to ensure that the image magnification is sufficient to allow for the identification of surface flaws. Visual assessment should include examination of the entire visible surface of the bearing, including the inner bore, outer races, and any peripheral components. Smaller surface defects can generally be identified more readily by indirect visual inspection.
Features of bearing surface defects
Bearing surface defects generally fall into two categories: fractures and defects. Fractures are generally characterized by fractures or other changes in surface topography, and can be seen as indentations in the bearing surface, or as surface flaws such as pitting or flaking. Defects, on the other hand, arise from irregularities in the bearing’s surface, such as scratches, or dimples.
Other surface defects of bearings include those associated with improper lubrication and inadequate lubrication. Improper lubrication can cause a bearing’s surfaces to become noticeably dry and without the right amount of lubricant, its surfaces may become worn. On the other hand, inadequate lubrication can cause a buildup of grease and other materials, which can reduce the bearing’s efficiency and reduce its longevity.
Conclusion
The surface defects of a bearing can have a dramatic effect on its performance and life span. By performing careful visual inspection and testing to identify bearing surface defects, and by following the appropriate maintenance and repair procedures, it is possible to minimize the risks associated with bearing surface defects. Following this advice should enable a bearing to perform its intended service life, and help ensure the safety of the personnel working around its components.
