Bearing failures diagnosis and investigation

Abstract

Successful failure investigation enables satisfactory remedial measures to be effected and can lead to improved design embodying greater reliability. As technological progress advances, bearing failure mechanisms are becoming increasingly complex and it is not always possible to give reliable on site diagnoses. A full investigation using all relevant investigational techniques is often the only way to ensure complete remedial action. The diagnosis and investigation of bearing failures are discussed. The uses of various investigational techniques are described and illustrated by examples of work from the National Engineering Laboratory. Methods of diagnosis of impending bearing failure and its prevention are outlined.