Thrust ball bearings are precision components that require rigorous procedures for use and maintenance. Improper use and maintenance will not achieve the expected performance and can easily lead to premature fatigue failure.
Premature fatigue failure often occurs when using thrust ball bearings. Many people ask, "Why do bearings experience premature fatigue failure during use? What causes premature fatigue failure?" There are many reasons for premature bearing fatigue failure, such as improper installation, poor lubrication, environmental pollution, and excessive loads. Below, we will introduce the common causes of premature fatigue failure of thrust ball bearings.
1. Improper Installation
1. Using brute force during installation, such as striking the bearing surface directly with a hammer, can damage and deform the bearing ring raceways and rolling elements, increasing vibration during operation and leading to premature fatigue failure.
2. Improper installation, such as misalignment or failure to properly seat the thrust ball bearing, can result in insufficient bearing clearance. The inner and outer rings are not aligned at the same rotational center, resulting in misalignment and uneven force distribution, leading to premature bearing fatigue and failure.
II. Poor Lubrication
Based on customer usage data analysis, poor lubrication is one of the main causes of premature bearing failure. This includes: not adding lubricant or oil promptly; not adding lubricant or oil properly; improper lubricant or oil selection; and incorrect lubrication methods.
Recommendation: Select the correct lubricant or oil and use the correct lubrication method. Generally, grease lubrication is performed without cleaning the bearing. Oil lubrication generally does not require cleaning. However, bearings used in instruments or high-speed applications should be cleaned with clean oil to remove the rust inhibitor. Bearings with the rust inhibitor removed are prone to rust and should not be left unattended.
III. Contamination of the Bearing Space
Contamination can lead to premature failure of thrust ball bearings. Contamination refers to the ingress of dust, metal debris, and other debris into the bearing. Even tiny dust or debris, invisible to the naked eye, can increase bearing wear, vibration, and noise. Causes include: opening the bearing packaging too soon before use, unclean assembly environment during installation, unclean operating environment for the bearing, and contamination or impurities in the working medium.
Solution: Do not unpack the bearing before use; maintain a clean installation environment and thoroughly clean the bearings to be used; and carefully inspect the seals around the thrust ball bearing. Avoid handling bearings without protective clothing, and pay special attention to rust prevention during the rainy and summer months.
IV. Overload Fatigue
Overload fatigue is a common cause of bearing failure. Common causes of fatigue damage include: prolonged overload of the bearing; failure to replace or repair the bearing promptly; improper maintenance; and exposure of the equipment bearing to contaminants or moisture. If the equipment is down for an extended period, cover the machine with oiled paper or similar material to prevent prolonged exposure to air. During maintenance, if inspection is possible without disassembling the bearing, clean it with a coating brush dipped in kerosene solvent, then wipe dry with a lint-free cloth or blow dry with compressed air before lubricating and using it.
