The reason for the failure of sliding bearings (2)
Home > Bearing Knowledge > The Reason for the Failure of Sliding Bearings (2)
Source: Bearing Network | Time: December 18, 2013
---
Sliding bearings are essential components in many mechanical systems, but they can fail due to various factors. In part two of this article, we will explore some of the main causes of sliding bearing failure and how to prevent them.
**2. Device and Working Element Issues**
(1) If a shaft requires support from at least two fulcrums, poor alignment between the two sliding bearings can lead to uneven load distribution across the width of the bearing bush. This misalignment can cause localized contact, leading to a breakdown of the oil film and subsequent adhesive wear.
(2) The bearing bush must fit properly with the bearing housing. If the bush becomes loose or experiences fretting wear, heat transfer is affected, causing the temperature on the bearing surface to rise excessively. Additionally, dirt or particles trapped between the bearing bush and housing can interfere with proper heat dissipation.
Always inspect the damaged bearing shell carefully, as it can provide critical clues about the failure. Don’t forget to examine the opposite side of the bearing as well.
(3) Particle contamination is one of the leading causes of sliding bearing failure. These particles can come from external sources or be generated internally due to wear within the bearing itself. External particles may enter the bearing clearance and be carried into the system by the lubricant. Therefore, maintaining a clean working environment and proper sealing is crucial for the longevity of sliding bearings.
Lubricants can have a cleaning effect, but they can also carry contaminants into the bearing. The key is effective filtration. Choosing, applying, and maintaining the right filter is vital for sliding bearing performance.
Most bearing materials have micro-pores that can trap small particles. When these particles accumulate beyond the material’s capacity, they can cause grinding, scratching, and wear, increasing the clearance and roughening the surface. Matching the lubrication method, filter accuracy, sealing design, and bearing material is a complex challenge for engineers.
Identifying the composition of embedded particles helps determine their source and allows for targeted removal strategies. Chemical techniques can be used to separate particles from the bearing surface. For example, electrically coated bearing pads can be treated with a mixture of acetic acid and hydrogen peroxide, while aluminum-tin alloy bearings can be cleaned using sodium hydroxide. Tin-bismuth alloys may require a combination of acetic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and sodium hydroxide.
(4) Corrosive lubricants can oxidize during use, producing acidic byproducts that damage the bearing material. Special attention should be given to specific corrosion risks, such as oxygen-induced corrosion in tin-bearing alloys, sulfur-related corrosion in silver or copper materials, and moisture-induced corrosion in copper-lead alloys.
(5) Insufficient lubricant quantity or changes in viscosity can lead to catastrophic failures. In dynamic pressure bearings, especially in heavy-duty equipment, lack of lubrication during startup can cause severe damage. Ensuring proper lubricant circulation before starting the equipment is crucial.
Hydrostatic bearings rely on a continuous oil film for operation, so it's essential to ensure the hydrostatic system is fully functional before starting the machine. In engines, particularly under light loads or cold conditions, fuel can mix with the lubricant, reducing its viscosity and pressure. If the pressure drops below a critical level, the bearing may suffer early fatigue or even complete failure.
---
**Related Bearing Knowledge**
- The importance of SKF bearing stability
- Jiuzhou eight types of bearings: classification of thrust ball bearings
- Things to note when using NSK bearings
- Misconceptions about rolling bearings and the function of the bearing cage
- How to open a vibrating screen bearing
---
This article was originally published on China Bearing Network. Please cite the source when sharing.
Link: http://
Original Source: http://
Previous: The correct installation of bearings
Next: What is the element that forms the bearing workpiece appearance? "Roughness is unqualified"
Bench drill is a compact size of the pillar drill that is designed for drilling holes through materials including a range of woods, plastics and metals. They are suitable for smaller holes or work pieces and have moderate to high speeds. The dills always come with a belt driver that makes it possible to select different speed: High speed for wood and lower speed for metal. In order to suit different size of projects, the height and angle of bench is adjustable.
Workshop Pillar Drills,Benchtop Drill Presses,Drill Presses,Bench Pillar Drill,Bench drilling machine
AWLOP CO.,LTD , https://www.awlop.com