There is no need for lubrication treatment in the use of bearings. This kind of bearings is called oil-free lubrication. Many bearings need to be lubricated and maintained in use. Whether the lubrication is proper or not is also very important. If you lubricate the bearings, but do not do it properly, it is called invalid lubrication. It will bring many disadvantages to bearings.
China Bearing Net Explains Four Disadvantages of Invalid Lubrication of Bearings:
First: discoloration
Metal-metal contact will cause excessive bearing temperature, resulting in discoloration of raceways and rollers. In mild cases, this discoloration is due to lubricant contamination of the bearing surface, while in severe cases, the metal discoloration due to high temperature. In all cases, early detection can avoid costly maintenance.
Discoloration due to lubricant contamination of bearing surface
Second: Scratches and Peeling
Check whether the bearing has any trace of metal penetration or metal peeling - these situations need immediate attention. Scratches and peeling are easy to occur in the case of high load, low speed application or continuous high temperature, while thin or insufficient lubrication film will accelerate the occurrence of problems. Insufficient lubrication, incorrect selection of grease or sudden changes in working conditions may lead to flaking of bearing materials or scratches on bearing edges.
Third: Roller overheating
The rupture of lubrication film will lead to direct contact between components and local scratches. In tapered roller bearings, this may be represented by scratches on the large end of the roller and the guide edge. Thermal Damage of Conical Roller Caused by Metal-Metal Contact
Fourth: Bearing completely locked
Extreme local heating will produce metal flow in the bearing, which will change the original material and geometric structure of the bearing. This may lead to excessive inclination of rollers, damage to cages and complete locking of bearings. If catastrophic damage does occur, it is recommended to consult bearing experts to determine the root cause of the problem, as it may be a factor other than lubrication.
Warm reminder: The damage caused by invalid lubrication of bearings varies greatly in appearance and effect on the performance of bearings. In all cases, the amount, type, grade, viscosity, additives and supply system of grease must be properly designed for the bearing system. Grease should be selected according to historical experience, load, speed, sealing system, service conditions and life expectancy. If these factors are not properly considered, the bearing performance and application effect may be lower than expected.
