What are common symptoms of bearing failure?

The symptoms of bearing failure often manifest through observable physical characteristics and operational disruptions. When considering temperature rise, increased vibration, and unusual noise, these indicators are particularly significant.

A temperature rise around a bearing indicates excessive friction or improper lubrication, which can lead to overheating and potentially catastrophic failure if not addressed. Increased vibration is another crucial sign, as it suggests that the rolling elements are not operating smoothly—this can be due to wear, misalignment, or imbalance. Unusual noise, such as grinding or knocking, often points to the degradation of the bearing surfaces as they come into contact in an abnormal manner, potentially leading to complete failure if not resolved.

Identifying these symptoms early allows for timely maintenance or replacement, thereby preventing further damage to surrounding equipment.