What are the reasons for deep grooves and potholes in bearings on mechanical equipment

What are the reasons for deep grooves and potholes in bearings on mechanical equipment

Ordinary deep groove bearings are a common type of rolling bearing. The manifestation of damage to rolling bearings is pitting corrosion, with steel balls and inner 

and outer ring surface materials peeling off, appearing as pockmarks that cannot guarantee transmission accuracy. The reason is that the lubrication conditions are 

not met or damaged, and a stable oil film cannot be formed on the surface of the steel ball in contact with the inner and outer ring materials, resulting in direct -

contact of the materials. Due to the load borne by the bearing, the material undergoes compression and high-temperature adhesion, followed by rapid tearing. 

The resulting pitting corrosion.

The main reasons for deep grooves and potholes in bearings on mechanical equipment include poor lubrication, foreign object intrusion, improper installation, 

excessive load, temperature changes, etc. ‌

Poor lubrication: Insufficient lubrication or improper selection of lubricant can cause wear on the bearing surface, resulting in the formation of pits. Lubricant 

deterioration, oil film rupture, or insufficient lubricant quantity can cause direct contact between bearing surfaces, resulting in wear and pitting.

Foreign object intrusion: Impurities brought in during installation or lubricant can cause wear on the bearing surface and form pits. These foreign objects may 

cause damage to the bearing surface during installation or operation.

Improper installation: Improper operation such as not hitting the correct ring during installation, excessive pushing, or overloading can cause wear on the 

bearing surface and the formation of pits.

Excessive load: Excessive load can cause the bearing surface to bear excessive pressure, resulting in wear and potholes. In addition, excessive preloading 

can also cause the bearing to heat up and discolor, resulting in burns and inability to rotate.

Temperature changes: Temperature changes can affect the thermal expansion and contraction of bearings, leading to interference failure and exacerbating 

bearing wear, resulting in potholes.

Preventive and maintenance measures

Regularly check lubricants: ensure the quantity and quality of lubricants, replace lubricants regularly, and avoid using deteriorated lubricants.

Keep installation clean: Keep clean during installation, use clean lubricants, and check if the seals are intact.

Reasonable selection of interference fit: Ensure that the interference fit of the bearing is appropriate and avoid a tight or loose fit.

Load control: Reasonably design the usage conditions, avoid excessive loads, and ensure that the bearings operate under reasonable preloading.

Temperature control: Monitor the operating temperature of the bearings to avoid drastic temperature changes and ensure that the bearings operate within 

the appropriate temperature range.

By taking the above measures, it is possible to effectively prevent and reduce the phenomenon of deep grooves and potholes in bearings on mechanical 

equipment, and extend the service life of bearings.