Friction Torque

Friction torque in rolling bearings will vary with the bearing load and the condition of the lubricant. Where the bearing load is light-to-normal (P0.12C) and the lubricant provides good separation between the rolling contact surfaces, bearing friction torque may be calculated using the following formula:

where: M = friction torque (N mm) = coefficient of friction F = bearing load (N) d = shaft diameter (mm)

Temperature Rise
Temperature rise in bearings is caused by the conversion of friction energy into heat. Bearing temperature will generally rise quite abruptly during the initial stage of operation and then gradually climb until a steady state is reached. The steady state condition will exist if temperature rise from frictional energy is removed by the cooling "heat-sink" effect from the shaft and housing, and from heat conductance via the shaft, housing and lubricant.

 The time until equilibrium is attained depends on the difference between heating volume generated by the bearing and the heating volume removed by the cooling effect. If the equilibrium temperature is excessively high, then review of the bearing application should be done. The bearing internal clearance or preload, fits, bearing support structure, seal contact area surface finish, rotating speed, load, and lubrication type, amount, and delivery system are subjects for investigation where excessive temperature occurs. An abnormal temperature rise can cause a spiraling condition where no equilibrium will occur, thus leading to a break-down in the lubricant and lubricant film, with catastrophic results.

Mounting and Dismounting

Rolling bearings have higher accuracy than other parts in most equipment and are often considered to be the most important rotating component. Improper handling of bearings reduces machine accuracy and can cause early bearing failures. To attain predicted bearing performance, utmost care should be taken in handling bearings from the pointof-receipt through the mounting operation.

Storage and Handling

The major problems encountered during the bearing storage and retrieval operations are in rusting and impact damage to the parts. To protect bearings against rusting during storage, parts should be placed in a dry, clean, cool area. Bearings should not be subjected to extremes of humidity during storage. Impacts to bearings can create damage to the raceways, rolling elements, and cages. Do not drop bearings. Bearings which are dropped should not be used for service.

Mounting
Proper bearing mounting governs the life, accuracy, and performance of a bearing. Before mounting the bearing, carefully check the following points. Check to see if: the job standards are established and the necessary jigs are prepared. the shaft and housing size, tolerance, and finish are defined and met. lubricant type and amount specified is at hand. inspection standards are established.

 the method of cleaning the bearing and relevant parts is clear. (1) Mounting Precautions Select a clean, dry place to handle the bearing, and keep necessary tools and workbench clean. Do not unpack the bearing until it is to be mounted. If the bearing is unpacked before mounting for acceptance inspection or for any other reason, follow these directions: a) If the bearing is to be mounted within a short time period, coat it with rust preventive oil and place it in a clean container. b) If the bearing will not be mounted in a short time, coat it with rust preventative oil and repack it in the original container.