Cracks and fractures are not only extremely annoying, they are also one of the most common types of rolling bearing damage. The reasons for such damage can often be found in insufficient lubrication or incorrect mounting of the rolling bearing. In this article, you will learn how crack and breakage damage occurs and which methods can be used to prevent it.
Cracks
The reasons for the occurrence of cracks are numerous. Among others, an excessively tight fit, extreme loads, excessive impact loads, repeated flaking, heat generation/overheating due to gradual and rapid cooling, an excessively loose fit and incorrect shaft shapes or radii can potentially be the cause.
The formation of cracks is as follows: Initially, fine cracks form in the surfaces of the rolling bearing. Only during continuous operation of the bearing do these subtle cracks develop into larger cracks or fractures. Cracks, are most likely to form on the bearing rings, the rolling elements and guide lips. Several countermeasures exist to reduce the risk of cracks forming. In general, the first step can be to improve the identification of the causes of very high levels of stress. Also, it is recommended to check tolerances and loading conditions, improve the assembly process, coat the rolling elements and raceways (burnishing) and use an improved fit.
Fractures
Fractures – comparable to cracks – are usually caused by excessive loads, shocks (including impact loads during installation), incorrect choice of fit or poor handling. At the beginning, these usually occur individually, with small flaked areas forming. These later lead to breakage. Fractures can be avoided by an optimised installation process, correct loading conditions, suitable choice of fit and sufficient support of the bearing shoulder.
This ring fracture, using the example of a cylindrical roller bearing, can be caused by impacts, overloading or bending loads, among other things.
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