Grease is essential for bearings: it reduces friction and thus ensures smooth operation and a longer bearing life.
Although proper lubrication is so important, mistakes often occur in the process. We have identified the three most common mistakes and tell you how to prevent them.
1. Time-based lubrication of bearings
Manufacturers often specify regular time intervals, such as a certain number of weeks for lubrication, but these completely disregard where a bearing is used. It makes a decisive difference for lubrication whether the bearing is used in a hot and humid or a cold and dry climate. Other influencing factors are the speeds, the loads and the number of starts and stops at which the bearing is used.
2. Too much or too little grease
The amount of grease is also important. If too much grease is used, it builds up pressure that pushes the rolling elements against the outer ring. Increased friction and temperature are the result, which have a life-limiting effect on the bearing. Too little grease also increases friction and temperature and has the same effect.
3. Subjective data as a basis for decision-making
Visual or acoustic tests of lubrication are too subjective to draw conclusions on the correct lubrication of a bearing. Everyone perceives their environment differently and the possibilities for storing and archiving comparative data are very limited.
How can correct lubrication be detected and monitored?
With our ultrasonic sensors, the characteristic signals of bearings are recorded. The process takes only a few seconds and is possible, either with mobile or with permanent sensors, during operation. The evaluation of the data is completely automatic and you get an overview of the actual condition of your equipment without long waiting. The data can be stored and changes observed over time. By identifying defective bearings and poor lubrication conditions, you can plan repairs or replacements and prevent downtimes of your equipment.
Author: DI Mag. Markus Loinig
Email: markus@senzoro.com
