Bearings are principle and one of the most important elements of all rotating equipment which includes motors, pumps, fans, compressors, etc. They require proper installation and maintenance to uphold healthy and optimal operation modes. Therefore, it’s important to understand the role of bearings.
A bearing is a crucial component that is used to support a mechanical body, allowing it to rotate by reducing the friction caused due to motion. The mechanical assembly consists of rolling elements, an outer race, and an inner race. Ball bearings and roller bearings are the most common types of bearings.
Bearing, however, is prone to fatigue, and if you don’t install it properly or maintain it well, its lifespan will diminish and will significantly impact equipment operation.
Storage:
In terms of storage, the shelf life of a bearing varies from one manufacturer to another. Bearings must be kept in a clean and dry environment to avoid degradation. Standard packaging must be used to prevent contamination of the mechanical assembly.
Installation and replacement:
When it comes to installation or replacement, keep these three fundamental aspects in mind:
– Specification
– Cleanliness
– Size
The lifespan of a bearing is indirectly proportional to the load it can withhold or the speed it rotates at. The excessive load caused by unbalance, misalignment, or even improper lubrification can cause premature failure, reducing the lifespan by a significant number.
Cleanliness is another key factor to be considered while installing or replacing a bearing. Contamination can cause precipitated fatigue which can compromise the integrity of the mechanical assembly.
Choosing the apt bearing is also important for machinery functionality. The choice must be made keeping the design specification in mind. Proper sizing will guarantee an accurate fit in accordance with other machine components.
The functionality and health of a machine rotate around the bearing, hence it’s highly critical to install and maintain these components properly and consistently.
