What maintenance is needed for bearings? 

Taking care of your electric motor bearings is like giving your car a regular service—it keeps everything running smoothly and prevents costly breakdowns down the road. Bearings are the backbone of your motor’s operation, so a little maintenance goes a long way. Here are some practical tips to help you keep those bearings in top shape.

If your bearings are beyond repair and you need replacements we have a wide range IN STOCK to suit most Australian pumps. 

Lubrication Techniques

The first and most important rule of bearing maintenance is proper lubrication. Bearings need a thin film of lubricant to reduce friction and wear. Over time, this lubricant can break down or get contaminated, so occasionally a light reapplication is key.

When you do lubricate bearings it is very important to choose the right lubricant its not just a matter of applying some WD40. The most important part of lubricant selection is to choose an oil or a grease, this will be specified by the bearing manufacturer for that particular model of bearing. The 2 most important performance things to pay attention to is the speed of the bearing and how much weight or load is on the bearing. This will determine if the grease you use is suitable for high load or high temperature. If you use the wrong grease or oil, it might melt too much and stop covering the bearing rollers properly. This will mean the bearing won’t be lubricated properly and will wear out and fail prematurely.

With modern bearings its also essential to check if the bearings actually can be lubricated. A lot of bearings now have metal or plastic covers over the bearing race to stop dust and debris from contaminating and damaging the rollers. When the bearings have side covers, they are generally considered “sealed for life” and so the oil that is in them when they are assembled in the factory is all the lubrication they ever need. If they are showing signs of wear or damage, then you remove the bearing and replace it. If the bearings are classed as “greasable” or able to be lubricated, then you lubricate them only when they need it, usually after a certain number of operating hours.

While it might be tempting to pack in as much grease as possible, too much can be just as bad as too little. Over-lubricating can lead to overheating and even damaging the races or seals, plus can cover the inside of an electric motor or other machine part with grease which can cause it to fail. A general rule of thumb is to add just enough to keep the bearings coated—usually, a small amount every few months is sufficient, but check your motor’s manual or the bearing specification sheet for how much grease to apply.
If the bearing housing that its fitted in has a grease nipple then use the recommended amount of grease from a grease gun. If the bearing has to be backed, remove it and use a bearing packer tool to press just enough clean grease into the bearing.

Common Problems with Bearings in Electric Motors and How to Fix Them

Even with regular maintenance, bearings in electric motors can still run into problems. Overheating, noise, and vibration are the usual suspects when things go wrong. Let’s break down these common issues and how you can troubleshoot them like a pro.

Overheating and why does it happen?

Overheating in bearings usually points to one of three things: too much friction, excessive load, or poor lubrication. If your motor’s bearings are running hot, it’s a clear sign that something’s off.

How to Fix Overheating.

1. Check the Lubrication: Start by ensuring that the bearings are properly lubricated. As mentioned before, both too much and too little grease can cause problems. If you suspect the grease is old or contaminated, it’s best to clean out the old lubricant and reapply fresh grease.
2. Inspect the Load: If the motor is under a heavier load than it was designed for, the bearings can overheat from the extra strain. Double-check that your motor is operating within its specified load capacity. If it’s overloaded, you might need to reduce the load or consider upgrading to a motor better suited to the job.
3. Examine the Alignment: Misalignment can cause uneven wear and generate excess heat. Use an alignment tool to check that the motor and its components are properly aligned. If they’re not, realigning them should help cool things down.

Strange noises and why do they start happening.

Bearings are designed to operate quietly, so if you’re hearing grinding, squealing, or other strange noises, it’s a signal that something’s wrong. Common causes include contamination, wear, or damage.

How to Fix Strange noises.

1. Inspect for Contaminants: Dust, dirt, or other debris can get into the bearings and cause noise. If this is the case, clean the bearings thoroughly and make sure the seals are intact to prevent future contamination.
2. Check for Wear or Damage: Over time, bearings can wear out or get damaged, especially if they’ve been running under poor conditions. If the bearings are visibly worn, pitted, or damaged, it’s time to replace them. Make sure to also check the shaft and housing for any wear that might have contributed to the problem.
3. Ensure Proper Installation: Improper installation can lead to uneven pressure on the bearings, causing noise. If you suspect this, disassemble the motor and reinstall the bearings carefully, ensuring they’re properly seated.

Vibration and why do they happen:

Excessive vibration can be caused by a range of issues, from imbalance in the motor to loose components or misalignment. Vibration not only indicates a problem with the bearings but can also lead to further damage if left unchecked.

How to fix vibration problems:

1. Balance the Motor: An imbalanced rotor or impeller can cause the motor to vibrate excessively, which puts extra strain on the bearings. Use a balancing tool to check the balance of the rotating components and adjust as necessary.
2. Tighten Loose Parts: Vibration can occur if any of the motor’s components are loose. Check all bolts, nuts, and mounting parts to ensure everything is securely tightened. Pay special attention to the bearing housing and motor mounts.
3. Realign Components: Just like with overheating, misalignment can lead to vibration. Use an alignment tool to ensure that the motor and its connected components are properly aligned.

If there has been overheating, noises or vibrations, then you should always inspect the bearings damage. If the bearings are already damaged or worn, they can cause or worsen vibration and possibly cause other components to be damaged. If you find any signs of wear, replace the bearings, they are cheap when a whole new machine is normally expensive.

By understanding these common problems and knowing how to tackle them, you can keep your electric motor bearings running smoothly. Regular inspections and timely repairs will save you a lot of headaches and keep your motor in top shape. And remember, when in doubt, don’t hesitate to call in a professional for a second opinion—it’s always better to fix things right the first time.

If you have any questions about bearings or need a particular type of bearing please contact us.