Seven Key Performance Indicators of Bearings

Bearings

Bearings are a critical component in modern mechanical equipment. Their primary function is to support rotating mechanical parts, reduce friction during movement, and ensure rotational accuracy. Bearing manufacturing processes are typically evaluated using seven key performance indicators.

Hardness

Hardness is a key quality characteristic of bearings, directly impacting contact fatigue strength, wear resistance, and elastic limit. Bearings typically require a hardness of HRC 61-65 during use to achieve high contact fatigue strength and wear resistance.

Rust Resistance

To prevent corrosion and rust on bearing parts and finished products during processing, storage, and use, bearings must exhibit excellent rust resistance.

Self-Alignment

Bearings can still operate normally even when the shaft centerline is tilted relative to the bearing housing centerline. Double-row radial spherical ball bearings and double-row radial spherical roller bearings exhibit excellent self-alignment. The operating speed of roller bearings should be below the maximum speed. Selecting high-precision bearings, improving the cage structure and material, employing oil mist lubrication, and improving cooling conditions can all increase the maximum speed. Lubrication Performance

Bearing lubrication reduces internal friction and wear, prevents seizure, and extends bearing service life. It dissipates frictional heat and cools the bearing, preventing overheating and lubricant aging. It also prevents foreign matter from entering the bearing, and prevents rust and corrosion.

Wear Resistance

During operation, bearings experience not only rolling friction but also sliding friction between the rings, rolling elements, and cage, causing continuous wear of bearing components. To reduce wear on bearing components, maintain bearing precision and stability, and extend bearing service life, bearings must exhibit excellent wear resistance.

Contact Fatigue Strength

Under cyclic loads, bearing contact surfaces are susceptible to fatigue failure, i.e., cracking and spalling, which is the primary form of bearing damage. Therefore, to maximize bearing service life, bearings must exhibit high contact fatigue strength.

Processability

During the production process, bearing parts undergo numerous cold and hot working steps. To meet the demands of high production volume, high efficiency, and high quality, bearings must exhibit excellent processability, such as cold and hot forming, machinability, and hardenability.