A specialized metals machining company was experiencing continuous performance problems with their horizontal machining centre. Bearings were prematurely failing causing unplanned down time and significant production problems. NSK performed a detailed analysis of the machine spindle, including a failed bearing investigation and grease condition review, and found that both cutting fluid and machining debris were entering the bearings. Contamination caused the lubricant to fail and resulted in premature bearing failure.
NSK proposed implementing a sealed super precision bearing with a higher contact angle to improve the bearing arrangement (high axial load) which also counteracted the entrance of debris. Lifetime was increased from 15 days to 6 months.
Before | Cost p.a. | NSK Solution | Cost p.a. | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Bearing life – 15 days | Bearing life – 6 months | |||
Original bearing × replacements / year × brgs. / spindle |
$29,037 | Sealed bearing × replacements / year × brgs / spindle | $3,328 | |
Total Costs | $29,037 | $3,328 |
Reference:SS-E-7016