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How To Properly Lubricate An Electric Motor Bearing
Electric Motor Bearing are vital to any machine, motor, or other mechanism that requires a smooth surface to move and operate smoothly. Electric motors are no exception. They drive pumps and other machinery to perform a wide variety of tasks in many industries, including manufacturing, energy production, mining, water processing, transportation, and more. But a well-functioning electric motor needs a number of critical components to perform effectively, from bearings to shaft grounding devices. The purpose of a bearing is to support and locate the rotor, keep the air gap small and consistent, and transfer loads from the shaft to the motor frame. Under ideal conditions, a bearing should be capable of operating at low and high speeds while minimizing frictional losses and needing only the most minimal maintenance.
A key factor in determining a motor's longevity is proper lubrication. Unfortunately, a number of factors can interfere with this essential process. Incorrect lubrication or over-lubrication, insufficient lubrication, and environmental contamination can all contribute to premature motor bearing failure. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to prevent or detect these problems and take steps to avoid them.
Over-lubrication
Using too much grease for the application could result in excess heat, which causes bearings to fail early by accelerating wear and degradation of insulation around windings. During routine lubrication, always consult the owner's manual and/or grease supplier for recommended relubrication intervals. When relubricating, it's important to clean the grease fitting and drain plug before adding new grease. Also, use a dead-blow hammer or impact wrench to apply the force needed to push the bearing onto the shaft to ensure that it's snug and squared against the block.
Lubrication incompatibility
Choosing a grease that's not compatible with the current one in place could lead to corrosion and pitting of the bearing raceway or rolling element surface. It's also important to choose a grease with the appropriate thickener for the specific application. Modern grease technologies, additive designs, and a wider range of thickeners can help achieve this goal, even in applications with abrasive, corrosive, or shock loading.
Environmental contaminants
A dirty or wet bearing may require shields or seals to reduce contaminant ingress, which could contribute to premature bearing damage or failure. Likewise, a high-humidity or damp environment can also demand additional protective measures. For example, in some applications, solid contamination such as mud, sand, metal flakes or wood chips can also need to be sealed away from the bearings. These measures can significantly improve performance and extend the life of your electric motor.