According to statistics, about 30% to 40% of premature bearing failures are related to corrosion. Once the bearings rust, it will affect the operating accuracy and cause noise, vibration and other problems. Therefore, understanding the causes of bearing corrosion and taking protective measures is the key to extending the life of bearings. Let’s talk about it together!

Why do bearings rust?

1.Chemical corrosion

Bearings exposed to air, moisture or chemical media for a long time will undergo oxidation reactions. Especially when in contact with corrosive substances such as acids, alkalis, and salts, the surface is easily corroded.

2.Electrochemical corrosion

The bearing steel ring and the copper and iron cage form a micro-battery in the water film, and the bearing steel with low potential acts as an anode and is corroded. In addition, scratches and defects on the bearing surface may become the starting point of corrosion and gradually expand into rust spots and pitting corrosion.

3.Environmental factors

When the relative humidity of the environment exceeds 60%, an invisible water film is easily formed on the bearing surface, creating conditions for corrosion. If it is accompanied by high temperature and salt spray environment, the corrosion rate will be accelerated.

4.Material reason

Bearings made of different materials have large differences in corrosion resistance. Bearing steel has average corrosion resistance, while stainless steel bearings have better rust resistance.

5.Human Factors

Insufficient daily management of bearings can also cause corrosion. For example, long-term storage after unpacking, direct contact with the bearing surface with hands, and lack of anti-rust after the equipment is shut down, etc., may cause premature rust of the bearings.

How to prevent bearings from rusting?

1, choose bearings made of appropriate materials according to working conditions. Corrosion-resistant products such as coated and stainless steel bearings can be used in humid or corrosive environments.

2, improves the anti-rust ability through blackening, phosphating and other processes, while maintaining the integrity of the anti-rust oil layer.

3, use grease with anti-rust properties, and check and replace the lubricant regularly to reduce the impact of moisture and air on the bearings.

4, keep the environment dry and clean, and avoid condensation water, dust and corrosive gases from contacting the bearings.

5, bearings should be stored in a dry and ventilated place, and clean gloves should be worn during installation to prevent sweat and impurities from contaminating the bearing surface.

If you want to extend the service life of bearings, you cannot wait until they are rusted before dealing with them. You must start from the selection, installation, storage and other aspects, and do a good job in anti-rust management to reduce the risk of rust.

(Source: Wuxi Sanli Robot)