What issue can excessive radial clearance in a bearing cause?

Excessive radial clearance in a bearing can lead to increased vibration and noise. When a bearing has too much radial clearance, the shaft can move too freely within the bearing. This can create slack, allowing the shaft to encounter misalignment and uneven contact with the bearing races. As a result, the bearing may not maintain a stable operating position, leading to increased relative motion between the rolling elements and the races. This instability generates vibrations that are often accompanied by heightened noise levels. Such conditions can compromise the performance of the machinery, leading to further mechanical issues and potential premature failure if not addressed.

The other options do not accurately represent the implications of excessive radial clearance. While reduced lubrication efficiency may occur in certain conditions, it is not the primary issue linked to excessive clearance. Likewise, better heat dissipation and longer operating life are generally favorable conditions that would not be expected in the presence of excessive radial clearance.