When using SKF bearings, if you notice that the temperature is abnormally high, you should immediately stop the equipment, identify the cause, and address the issue in accordance with the solutions provided above. However, as the causes of bearing overheating may vary, the appropriate solutions will differ; therefore, each situation must be assessed on a case-by-case basis and resolved with the assistance of technical personnel.
1. Check the temperature of the bearing whilst it is rotating. If the temperature of the outer ring can be measured directly via the oil hole, this is the most appropriate method. Generally, the bearing temperature can be estimated based on the temperature of the bearing housing. If lubrication or installation is inadequate, the bearing temperature will rise sharply, resulting in abnormally high temperatures. In such cases, operation must be stopped immediately and necessary preventive measures taken.
2. Inspect the noise produced by the bearing during rotation. Even minor damage, such as flaking, can cause abnormal or irregular noises. A sound level meter can be used to identify such issues. By monitoring the volume and quality of the rolling noise from a running bearing, preventive measures can be taken in advance.
3. Inspect the vibration of imported bearings during operation. Issues such as flaking, indentations, rust, cracks and wear are all reflected in bearing vibration measurements. Bearing vibration is highly indicative of damage; therefore, by using specialised bearing vibration measurement equipment (such as frequency analysers), the magnitude of vibration can be measured, and the specific nature of the abnormality can be deduced through frequency analysis. As the measured values vary depending on the bearing’s operating conditions or the sensor’s installation position, it is necessary to analyse and compare the measurements for each machine in advance to establish the appropriate assessment criteria.
Generally, the bearing temperature rises gradually as operation begins and stabilises after 1–2 hours. The normal bearing temperature varies depending on the machine’s thermal capacity, heat dissipation, rotational speed and load.
Whether mounted on the shaft or in the bearing housing, imported bearings must be fixed in position in three directions: radial, axial and tangential. Radial and tangential positioning is achieved through a tight fit of the bearing rings; however, axial positioning rarely employs a tight fit. Typically, axial positioning is achieved using axial limiting components, such as end caps and retaining rings, to restrict the axial position within the specified clearance range.
