Paper Machine Bearing Failure Analysis; Predictive and Preventive Maintenance, 1995 Engineering Conference Proceedings

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Mark J. Cutler
SKF USA Inc.

The statement "all bearings in the paper machine fail from inadequate or improper lubrication" is very misleading. When analyzed, most failed bearing components exhibit classic forms of damage normally associated with inadequate lubrication such as glazing, frosting, surface wear, heat discoloration and fatigue spalling. What we often fail to realize is some abnormal condition, possibly occurring through improper bearing handling, installation or maintenance procedures, may have initiated or contributed to the failure process. In the failed bearing, these conditions are often masked and, in the majority of cases, appear and are labeled as lubrication problems. On the other hand, do not get the impression that all bearing failures on the paper machine are related to factors other than lubrication as bearing service life is highly dependent on the initial lubricant selection as well as lubrication maintenance. In this presentation, we will discuss various areas on the paper machine where problems occur from a rolling element bearing point of view and provide guidelines for predicting bearing failures, determining the mode of failure and suggest corrective measures needed to be implemented in order to increase bearing service life.