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Inspection and Trouble-Shooting of Bearing Operation
The smooth operation of any machinery and industrial equipment heavily relies on the performance of bearings. But to ensure that their performance remains satisfactory over the long-term, bearings must be properly inspected and serviced on a regular basis. A primary goal of bearing inspection is to identify any wear, damage, or improper performance before it can lead to serious harm to the entire system and cause downtime of the operation.
For optimal inspection of bearings, one must start by acquiring a knowledge of the bearing’s structure, finishes and lubrication. This knowledge must then be accompanied by the required inspection, adjustment and use of appropriate tools to ensure that both the bearing and its components are operating properly. Proper bearing inspection will help in identifying even the smallest indications of wear or other abnormalities before they can cause extensive damage.
In order to inspect a bearing, it must first be removed from its place in the system. Once the bearing has been removed, the following parts should be inspected:
• The bearings rolling surfaces. This includes checking for any signs of damage, deteriorated oils, wear or debris that may have accumulated on both inner and outer tracks. • The races or grooves. These should not be considered to be perfectly cylindrical but should instead be checked for signs of any uneven wear from incorrect installation or wear from prolonged operation. • The rings, retainers, seals and grease. These must also be carefully examined for signs of damage or excessive wear.
If any wear is detected, then the bearing should be replaced immediately. If all the components look to be in good condition, then the bearing must be reinstalled. It is also important to check the bearing during installation as it ensures that any damage that could have been missed prior to its removal can now be detected before the bearing is re-installed.
It is also essential to note that the form and function of a bearing often change over time. Therefore, the bearing must be inspected, adjusted and inspected again throughout its life to ensure that it is still providing its intended level of performance.
In the event that a bearing fails, the following troubleshooting steps should be taken to identify the root cause of the failure and implement corrective action:
1. Check for any signs of contamination on the bearing surfaces.
2. Check the bearing installation with a dial indicator or depth measuring device and ensure that it was installed correctly.
3. Inspect the lubrication system and look for any signs of contamination.
4. If the bearing was installed in a contaminated environment, inspect the area and look for signs of dirt or debris.
5. Check for any misalignment in bearings and rollers and adjust where necessary.
6. Replace faulty bearings, rollers, or seals as required.
7. Check the motor or bearing unit for any signs of overheating.
8. Adjust the speed and torque of the motor or bearing unit as necessary.
9. Test the bearing for smooth operation after the adjustments.
By following the troubleshooting steps above, the root cause of bearing failures can be quickly identified and corrective action taken to ensure smooth and efficient operation of the system. With regular inspection and troubleshooting, the performance of bearings can be maintained and any potential issues identified before they can cause any serious damage.
