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Bearings play an important role in the free and unrestricted movement of mechanical parts or components, from your wheels to your skateboard and many other things. Bearings bear the weight of the load and allow objects to move without any or less friction. In a world without bearings, mechanical moving parts will malfunction and stick, hindering smooth operation. The lifespan of bearings will be affected by the type of bearing, the required load capacity, and maintenance schedule. Proper maintenance can extend bearing life and reduce downtime.
Here are seven bearing maintenance tips that can help ensure a longer service life.

1. Handle with care

The bearings are very fragile and will soon be damaged. Therefore, it is very important to store them horizontally in a clean and dry environment and pack them well. Do not expose them to any air pollutants, as even tiny dirt can cause premature failure. Do not hammer or strike them, or apply direct force to them or their outer rings, as this may damage the rolling elements and cause misalignment. The most important thing to remember is not to remove the bearings from the packaging before preparing them for use.

2. Check the bearing seat and shaft

Whenever bearings are used for installation, the bearing seat and shaft must be checked for any physical condition or damage. Always use a soft cloth to wipe the surface clean and ensure that all scratches and burrs are removed.

3. Install bearings correctly

The method used for installing bearings depends on the type of bearing. For example, bearings with cylindrical holes are generally installed using a press fit method. Bearings with tapered holes can be directly installed on tapered shafts or cylindrical shafts using tapered sleeves. However, pressure should only be applied through press fit, otherwise the raceway may be damaged.

4. Avoid preheating or overheating

The maximum heating allowed for bearings depends on the heat treatment of the material. If they are heated beyond the allowable limit, they will cause permanent deformation or softening of the bearing steel, reduce the load-bearing capacity, and lead to failure. Always use induction heaters to heat bearings and do not use open flames.

5. Always use the correct tools

Special tools such as bearing puller, bearing assembly tool kit, oil injector kit, hydraulic nut or induction heater should be used during installation and disassembly. These tools ensure smooth installation or disassembly processes, thereby minimizing the risk of damage to the greatest extent possible.

6. Avoid corrosion

It is important not to expose bearings to water for long periods of time, as this can lead to rust and corrosion. It can also lead to premature failure of bearings, thereby affecting machine performance and productivity. As a result, it will increase equipment operating costs. Additionally, gloves must be worn when handling bearings. Sweat can also cause rust and corrosion.

7. Appropriate lubrication

Proper lubrication of bearings is crucial if you want to extend their service life. The correct lubricant depends on environmental conditions, temperature, speed, and load. In this case, it is recommended to follow the recommendations of the bearing manufacturer.