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Discrimination of bearing damage - contact; investigation; listening
**Discrimination of Bearing Damage – Contact, Inspection, and Listening**
Home > Bearing Knowledge > Discrimination of Bearing Damage – Contact, Inspection, and Listening
Source: China Bearing Network | Date: April 27, 2013
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When preparing for a race or just before a competition, it's crucial to inspect the bearings carefully. Early detection of issues with the bearing can prevent more serious problems down the line. If the bearing starts to deteriorate, it should be replaced or repaired promptly to avoid damage to the hardware.
One of the simplest methods to check is through **contact**. In industrial settings, a damaged bearing can cause high temperatures, which can be detected by simply touching the axle. This heat can harm the lubricant inside the bearing. By feeling the hub’s axis with your hand, you can detect irregularities such as misalignment, uneven rolling elements, or lack of smoothness. If there's a grinding sound, it could indicate dry oil or a faulty bearing.
**Inspection** involves checking the appearance of the bearing. Look for signs of a broken seal. If the seal is compromised, open it to check the condition of the grease. Blackened grease may indicate contamination or carbonization, while cloudy white grease suggests water ingress. The sooner these issues are identified, the better, as contaminated or degraded grease can lead to more severe failures.
**Listening** is another effective method. Industrial electronic stethoscopes are commonly used to assess bearing conditions. A normal bearing will make a smooth, steady sound. However, unusual noises such as sharp squeaks, irregular murmurs, or loud knocking may signal problems. These sounds could be caused by improper lubrication, metal-to-metal contact, or contamination of the grease. In some cases, irregular noises might indicate dents or damage on the raceway.
If an electronic stethoscope isn’t available, a simple alternative is to use a wooden stick against the fork (front or rear) and listen closely. For the center axle, this method can also be applied, though the sound may be mixed with other noises, making it harder to judge accurately.
Among the three methods, **contact** is often the most reliable. It requires removing the wheel, but it allows for a precise assessment of the shaft’s condition and the severity of any damage.
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- Detailed guide on deep groove ball bearings
This article was originally published on China Bearing Network.
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