Bearing lubrication problems cause over 80% of premature bearing failures. Fixing these issues requires precise selection of lubricant, controlled application, and regular monitoring.

Incorrect Lubricant Type

Using the wrong lubricant leads to high friction and overheating. For temperatures below 120°C, lithium-based grease works well for general industrial bearings. For applications exceeding 120°C or high-speed operations (over 10,000 RPM), polyurea-based grease is required to maintain stability.

Oil lubrication is preferred for very high-speed bearings, as it reduces churning losses better than grease. When choosing oil, viscosity should match the bearing’s operating temperature: ISO VG 32 for low temps, ISO VG 68 for medium temps, and ISO VG 100 for high temps.

Over-Lubrication or Under-Lubrication

Over-lubrication traps excess grease in the bearing housing, causing heat buildup and seal damage. For grease-lubricated bearings, fill only 15–30% of the internal bearing space. Under-lubrication leaves metal surfaces unprotected, leading to abrasive wear and early failure.

For oil-lubricated systems, maintain oil level at the midpoint of the sight glass. Check oil quality every 500 operating hours; replace if contaminated with metal particles or moisture.

Contaminant Entry in Lubricant

Dirt, water, and metal chips in lubricant accelerate bearing wear. Seal the bearing housing properly with contact or non-contact seals. For harsh environments, use double-lip seals to prevent external contaminants from entering.

Filter lubricant during every top-up to remove particulates larger than 10 microns. Regularly inspect seals for cracks or wear to avoid leaks.

Contact MS Bearings for free technical support on bearing lubrication solutions tailored to your application.