Bearing Problems and Fixing Them
Bearings solve many problems and have many advantages. Unfortunately, perfection doesn’t always happen. Depending on the industry and the use of the bearings, different variables can cause problems. Below are a variety of bearing problems and how fix them.
Foreign Matter– alien particles can cause wear and pitting
Common particulates- dirt, abrasive grit, lint, dust, steel chips
Fix: Clean with water, air, or mechanical removal
Improper Mounting- mounted on a press fit, of rotating ring
Mounting on shafts- causes denting
Loose shaft- produce heat, and foreign matter, cause wear
Loose Housing- similar to above
Excessive Tight Fits- cause rings to crack, creates high operating temperatures
Out of Round Housing- localized overloading, abnormal wear on surfaces,
Poor Finishing- break down of bearing seat
Fix: Review material, and check machine weekly
Bearing Misalignment- bent shafts, out of square shafts/spacers/clamping nuts
Overheating and separator failure
Fix: Inspect raceways, and ball tracks
Fluting- electrical damage
Currents pass through a bearing, cause arcing and burning
Early spalling and bearings need to be replaced
Small burns form on the rings
Fix: Inspect wires and parts of the machine, listen for problems as well
Corrosion, Fatigue, Improper Lubrication
Acids, water, and solvents can damage bearings, create excessive or abnormal wear
Excessive temperature reversals can occur
Flaking can occur, and surface deduction
Lubrication – overheating or excessive wear
Fix: Inspect parts regularly, apply lube, and keep dampness to a minimum
Whaley Products
 Packaged Chillers Non-expandable (integrated pump tank) 1.5Ton – 20Ton Single / Dual Circuits Single / Dual Pumps |
 SAE Series Modular Chillers Expandable (pump & tank on separate skid) 1.5Ton – 200Ton Single / Dual Circuits |
 SAR Series Split Chillers Expandable (Outdoor Condensing Unit) (pump, tank, evaporator on indoor skid) 1.5Ton – 200Ton Single / Dual Circuits |