Smearing is surface damage which occurs from a collection of small seizures between bearing components caused by oil film rupture and/or sliding. Surface roughening occurs along with melting.
High speed and light load
Sudden acceleration/deceleration
Improper lubricant
Entry of water
Improve the preload
Improve the bearing clearance
Use a lubricant with good oil film formation ability
Improve the sealing mechanism
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Smearing 1
Part: Inner ring of a cylindrical roller bearing Symptom: Smearing around circumference of raceway surface Cause: Roller slippage due to excessive grease quantity
Smearing 2
Part: Outer ring of damage “Smearing 1” Symptom: Smearing around circumference of raceway surface Cause: Roller slippage due to excessive grease quantity
Smearing 3
Part: Inner ring of a spherical roller bearing Symptom: Smearing around circumference of raceway surface Cause: Poor lubrication
Smearing 4
Part: Outer ring of a spherical roller bearing Symptom: Partial Smearing around circumference of raceway surface Cause: Poor lubrication
Smearing 5
Part: Inner ring of a spherical roller bearing Symptom: Partial Smearing around circumference of raceway surface Cause: Poor lubrication
Smearing 6
Part: Outer ring of damage “Smearing 5” Symptom: Partial Smearing around circumference of raceway surface Cause: Poor lubrication
Smearing 7
Part: Convex rollers of damage “Smearing 5” Symptom: Smearing of rolling surfaces Cause: Poor lubrication
Downloads
Bearing Doctor
Guide to prevention and countermeasures for bearing failures