Lubrication Procedures

The main purpose of lubricating a bearing is to coat the rolling contact / load bearing surfaces with a lubricant, minimizing direct metal-to-metal contact. This accomplishes the following:

• Reduces heat, friction and abrasion, prolonging useful life,
• Transports heat away from the load zone (oil),
• Slows or prevents corrosion, and
• Helps reduce the ingress of foreign matter into the bearing (grease).

Proper lubrication during assembly is critical. Please refer to the assembly instructions for lubrication requirements when assembling bearings. Proper lubrication during operation is also critical. The type and quantity of lubrication depends on the application — the load, RPM, and temperature all affect the needed lubrication. The majority (about 90%) of rolling element bearings are grease lubricated. Oil is generally utilized in high speed and high temperature applications.

Detailed Instuctions

Download the Lubrication Guide PDF for detailed instructions on lubrication procedures below.