Our Products

DownloadsOrder FormCredit App Line Card
Home Order Form Credit App Line Card FDJ Store News Releases

Lubrication Information Center

Did You Know ... Why Bearings Fail?

In a study conducted by the bearing manufacturer SKF, over 50% of bearing failures
are the result of improper lubrication

  • 34.4% - Inadequate Lubrication
  • 19.6% - Contamination
  • 18.6% - Other
  • 17.7% - Installation errors
  • 6.9% - Overload
  • 2.8% - Storage and Handling Error

  • Source: TAPPI 1995 Engineering Conference


    Why Do Bearings Need Lubrication?
  • Reduces friction.
  • Reduces wear.
  • Carries away heat. Oil is better at dissipating heat, but in the coal industry most bearings utilize grease. Therefore over lubricating can lead to bearing failure due to overheating, creating a possible fire hazard.
  • Keeps out dirt and contaminates.
  • Prevents rust and corrosion.

  • Proper Lubrication of Any Machine
  • It is best to lubricate when the bearings are rotating.
  • The proper lubrication interval delivers a small amount of lubricant on a
    frequent basis.
  • If in a harsh environment, the small amount of lubricant frequently delivered
    will help keep contaminants out of the bearing. This is especially true when
    the bearing seal has been ruptured.

  • Safety Concerns of Properly Lubricating Bearings
  • It is dangerous to lubricate bearings when the machine is running. Most
    companies have lock out / tag procedures before working on equipment.
  • Guards are required by OSHA & MSHA in many situations, especially
    conveyor belts.
  • Guards can be a danger factor in themselves, having to remove and then
    replace after lubrication.
  • Personnel may not be available to lubricate on a frequent basis, therefore it is
    possible that over-lubrication can occur, leading to a possible fire hazard.
  • Personnel who manually lubricate should wear protective gloves to prevent skin irritation.

  • Alternatives to Achieve Safe Lubrication

    All of these options can lead to a safe method of lubrication. As you go up in sophistication, you may also go up in price. But you are achieving what you are aiming for, proper lubrication of your bearings in a safe manner.

    1) Remote lines out through guards and locate in a safe area so personnel can lubricate while the machine is running.
  • Provides a safe continuous flow of lubricant to the bearing.
  • Need to check lines on a schedule basis to ensure the line is connected to the lube point.

  • 2) Remote lines out through guards and locate in a safe area so personnel can lubricate while the machine is running.
  • Still run the possible of over lubrication.
  • Use a single point lubricator that delivers a small amount of grease on a continuous basis.
  • Still need to check the lines on a periodic basis.
  • Disposable units will need to be changed out on a scheduled basis. This is the time when lines can be checked. If properly installed units can often be changed out
    while the machine is running.

  • 3) Use a centralized system, utilizing either air, electric or hydraulic pumps.
  • All points are fed from one central location, ensuring a safe flow of lubricant.
  • Control features can be added to include:
  • Easy adjustment to amount and time interval.
  • Monitoring is available for critical bearings.
  • Still need to check the lines on a periodic basis.

  • Home Contact Lubrication Products Hoses Connector Products News FDJ Store Site Map


    XML Site Map