Protect Your Bearings: Identifying and Preventing Brinelling

Brinelling is a common bearing failure that occurs when a static load is applied to a ball or roller bearing. The load causes the bearing elements to indent the raceway, creating a permanent deformation. This deformation can lead to premature bearing failure, increased vibration, and noise.

Effects of Brinelling

Premature bearing failure: Brinelling can reduce the bearing's load-carrying capacity, leading to premature failure.

Increased vibration: The deformed raceway can cause the bearing to vibrate excessively, which can damage other components in the system.

Increased noise: The vibration caused by brinelling can also lead to increased noise levels.

Identifying Brinelling

Common Causes of Brinelling

Improper installation: Installing a bearing with too tight a fit or using incorrect mounting methods can create excessive static load.

Overloading: Exceeding the bearing's load capacity can cause brinelling.

Improper lubrication: Insufficient lubrication can lead to brinelling by increasing friction and reducing the protective film between the bearing elements and raceway.

Static loading: Leaving a bearing under a static load for extended periods can cause brinelling.

Tips to Prevent Brinelling

Proper installation: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing the bearing and use appropriate mounting tools.

Avoid overloading: Calculate the bearing load carefully and ensure it does not exceed the bearing's capacity.

Proper lubrication: Use the correct lubricant for the application and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for lubrication frequency and quantity.

Minimize static loading: If a bearing must be under a static load for extended periods, use a mounting method that reduces the load on the bearing.

Advanced Features

Some advanced features can help prevent brinelling:

Self-aligning bearings: These bearings allow for misalignment between the shaft and housing, which can reduce static load on the bearing.

Lubrication systems: Automated lubrication systems can ensure a constant supply of lubricant to the bearing, reducing friction and protecting against brinelling.

Condition monitoring: Vibration monitoring can detect brinelling early on, allowing for corrective action to be taken before the bearing fails.

Success Stories

A manufacturing plant reduced brinelling-related bearing failures by 50% by implementing proper lubrication and installation practices.

A wind turbine operator extended the life of its bearings by over 2 years by using self-aligning bearings to reduce static load.

A food processing company eliminated brinelling in its conveyor bearings by installing an automated lubrication system.

Conclusion

Brinelling is a preventable bearing failure that can have serious consequences. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can protect your bearings and extend their service life.

Protect Your Bearings: Identifying and Preventing Brinelling