What bearing should I choose?
There are a number of different types of bearings and each has its own characteristics. Commonly used would include ball bearing, roller bearings and bearing units amongst many others but which you choose will depend on your application. There are a number of factors that you need to consider when deciding which Tapered Roller Bearings to use such as the value of applied load to the bearing, the design and suitability of associated components - such as the shaft and housing, the precision and speed requirements of the bearing and much more.
Do I need to buy lubricant for bearings?
Yes - this is critical to the performance of the bearings. It is important to select the correct ball bearing lubricant for the application i.e. high temperature grease will not be able to handle high loads and quiet greases will break down at high temperatures. The quantity of grease and the lubrication method used can also have an impact on how successful the bearings are and how long they will last.
How do I fix them?
Mounting the Planter Bearing is an important process as if they're not mounted using the proper method and equipment then they may not service you for very long. According to Acorn, Yorkshire's leading bearing suppliers, 'Around 16% of all premature bearing failures are a result of poor fitting or using incorrect mounting techniques. Individual applications may require mechanical, heat or hydraulic mounting methods for correct and efficient mounting. Selecting the mounting technique appropriate for your application will help you extend your bearing's service life and reduce costs resulting from premature failure, as well as potential damage to the application.'
How long will they last?
The life of a bearing will depend upon its frequency of use and application, carrying out some periodic maintenance work on them though should help to extend their life. Most will require some maintenance to prevent premature failure. Many bearings in high cycle operations may need periodic lubrication and cleaning to reduce the effects of wear and tear and indeed in general, the life of a bearing is often extended when it is kept lubricated and cleaned, if the application allows.
When you are considering making an investment it's advisable to discuss all your queries with an experienced bearing engineer from a reliable supplier or manufacturer to ensure that you select the most appropriate bearings for your requirements.