Insert Bearings – Relubrication and Maintenance
1. Lubricants:
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The bearings are factory greased and ready for operation.
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For normal applications, use NLGI 2 lithium grease or an equivalent type.
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For slower rotational speeds, grease with EP additives can be beneficial.
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Consider the operating temperature range. For applications above 110 °C, use a high-temperature grease.
2. Relubrication:
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Apply small amounts of grease at frequent intervals rather than large amounts at long intervals.
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For optimal relubrication, let the bearing rotate while fresh grease is pumped in.
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Avoid overfilling the bearing, as this increases resistance and raises operating temperature.
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If excess grease causes overheating, remove the grease fitting or plug to allow the excess grease to escape.
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Bearings that require relubrication must not exceed an angular misalignment of ±2°, to ensure that the grease channels function correctly.
3. Cleaning and Inspection:
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It is normal for a small amount of grease to escape at the seal and contact surface between the bearing and the housing. This also helps to keep dirt and moisture out.
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In dirty or moist environments, a continuous flow of fresh grease is beneficial, as it helps to flush out dirt and condensation.
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Inspect bearings regularly for signs of wear, damage, or contamination.
4. Relubrication Intervals:
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Two tables have been developed to serve as a basis for your relubrication schedule:
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One based on rotational speed.
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One based on temperature and operating conditions.
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Always adjust the schedule to best suit your specific application.
| Operating hours per day | 1-250 RPM | 250-500 RPM | 500-750 RPM | 750-1000 RPM | 1000-1500 RPM | 1500-2000 RPM | 2000-2500 RPM | 2500-3000 RPM |
| 8 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 3 |
| 16 | 12 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| 24 | 10 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Relubrication depending on temperature and environment: | ||
| Environment | Bearing temperature | Relubrication interval |
| Clean | 0-50°C | 6-10 months |
| 50-65°C | 1-3 months | |
| 65-95°C | 1-4 weeks | |
| Dirty | 0-65°C | 1-4 weeks |
| 65-95°C | 1-7 days | |
| Humid | 0-95°C | 1-7 days |
