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Damage Condition Possible Causes Countermeasures
When electric current passes through a bearing, arcing and burning occur through the thin oil film at points of contact between the raceway and rolling elements. The points of contact are melted locally to form "fluting" or groove-like corrugations which can be seen by the naked eye.
Magnification of these grooves reveals crater-like depressions which indicate melting by arcing.
  • Electric current passing through a bearing
  • Design electric circuits which prevent current flow through the bearings
  • Insulate the bearing

 

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Electrical Erosion 1

Part: Inner ring of a tapered roller bearing
Symptom:  Fluting as a result of advanced electrical erosion.

Electrical Erosion 2

Part: Rolling elements of a taper roller bearing
Symptom: Fluting as a result of advanced electrical erosion. 

Electrical Erosion 3

Part: Outer ring of a deep groove ball bearing
Symptom:  Dull, matte, “frosted”  appearance

Electrical Erosion 4

Part: Rolling elements of a deep groove ball bearing
Symptom: Dull, matte, “frosted” appearance

Downloads

Bearing Doctor

Guide to prevention and countermeasures for bearing failures