What action should be taken if a bearing shows signs of corrosion?

When a bearing exhibits signs of corrosion, it indicates that the protective layer has been compromised, potentially leading to increased friction, overheating, and failure of the bearing mechanism. The presence of corrosion can negatively impact the bearing's performance by affecting the surface integrity and leading to premature wear. Thus, replacing the bearing is essential to ensure that the machinery operates efficiently and reduces the risk of unexpected downtime or further damage to components connected to the bearing.

Cleaning a corroded bearing does not effectively resolve the underlying issues, as any remaining corrosion can continue to progress and may lead to operational failures. Similarly, repairing the bearing may not restore its original strength and efficiency, especially if the corrosion has penetrated deeply. Regular inspection alone will not suffice, as it does not mitigate the immediate risks associated with using a compromised bearing. Investing in a replacement is a proactive approach to maintaining machine reliability and performance.