It is a well accepted fact that accurate bearing fit is critical to bearing life and run life of the motor. With more than 40% of motor failures related to bearings, this best practice cannot be emphasized enough, especially since the variables of bearing fits are easily controlled in the motor shop. For more, see the Motor Repair Best Practices Pt. 5 – Motor Bearing Fits.
Some practical advice on bearing fits procedures
This video looks at the four most prominent causes of bearing failure. Do you know what they are? Precise bearing fits are also a function of how you check fit tolerances – the tools used and the procedure. Dial bore gauges are preferred over inside micrometers and for very good reasons, as the video demonstrates. With tolerances less than the width of a human hair, precise bearing fits are serious business if you want to optimize the life of the bearings and the motor.
Use the right tools
In addition to using dial bore gauges for bearing fits, you will want to use a reliable fits reference such as the SKF Bearing Installation Guide. Additionally, good practice requires that your shop take multiple measurements across the face of the bore, rotating the dial bore gauge between each measurement. And be sure to maintain a calibration program for your gauges and other bearing installation tools for more long lasting bearing fits.
Check out our motor bearing fits video
For more information, or to start a testing program, call us at 800.993.3326. Or email our motor team at EECOMotorTeam@eeco-net.com