The mounting of bearings is a practice that requires the correct knowledge and skills. Historically, this task has seen maintenance personnel make a certain amount of mistakes, which consequently have reduced the lifespan of bearings. Further factors compromising service life include a failure to keep the bearings clean, not respecting the recommended clearances between the bearing rings and the shaft, and failing to use professional mounting tools. However, according to global bearing manufacturer NSK, these errors can easily be avoided.
Up to 20% of all bearing issues originate from faulty mounting, and this type of problem can lead to the stoppage of whole systems or production lines. This is reason enough to take extra care when mounting bearings.
For those concerned about this issue or simply keen to learn more, bearing users can get support. For example, the company offers training that focuses specifically on the correct mounting and dismounting of bearings. Moreover, training can be held at the user’s site or in co-operation with sales partners.
In addition to the training provision, as part of its AIP+ (Added Value Programme) service package, the company offers tools for mounting bearings in a professional manner. These special tools are needed to apply the correct force necessary to press the bearing ring into place. In the case of cold mounting, it is important to ensure that mounting forces are never transferred through the rolling elements of the bearing, otherwise damage may occur, not just to the rolling elements, but also the raceways.
Another service offered by NSK is on-site failure analysis, to examine cases of bearing damage. These investigations conclude with recommendations on whether to use bearings from a different series or optimise the environmental conditions.
