Bearings are critical components in electric motors, supporting the rotating shaft and enabling smooth motion. They directly influence motor performance, noise, efficiency, and service life. Understanding different bearing types and proper maintenance helps prevent costly failures and downtime.

1. Common Bearing Types Used in Motors

• Deep Groove Ball Bearings: The most widely used bearing type. Suitable for radial and moderate axial loads. Common in small to medium motors.
• Roller Bearings: Used in larger motors where heavy radial loads are present. They provide higher load capacity but less axial load support.
• Angular Contact Bearings: Designed to handle combined radial and axial loads. Often used in motors with high thrust requirements (e.g., vertical pumps).
• Sleeve Bearings: Provide excellent performance in large, slow-speed motors. Known for long life and vibration damping, but require proper lubrication systems.

2. Bearing Selection Factors

• Load Type: Radial vs. axial vs. combined load requirements.
• Motor Size & Speed: High-speed motors often require precision ball bearings; large motors may need roller or sleeve bearings.
• Application: Pumps, compressors, and fans each have unique bearing demands.
• VFD Applications: Bearings may need insulation or hybrid ceramic designs to prevent stray current damage.

3. Common Bearing Failures

• Lubrication Failure: Insufficient or contaminated grease leads to overheating and wear.
• Misalignment: Shaft misalignment causes uneven loading and early failure.
• Electrical Damage: Stray currents from VFDs can cause pitting in races (fluting).
• Contamination: Dust, moisture, or chemicals reduce bearing life significantly.

4. Maintenance Best Practices

• Follow lubrication schedules using correct grade of grease or oil.
• Ensure alignment checks during installation and servicing.
• Use insulated or hybrid bearings for VFD-driven motors.
• Store bearings in dry, clean environments to avoid contamination before installation.
• Regularly monitor temperature and vibration to predict bearing health.

CG Power Bearing Practices

CG Power motors are designed with high-quality bearings from reputed manufacturers (SKF, FAG, NTN) and optimized for Indian operating conditions. Options for insulated bearings, sleeve bearings, and customized bearing solutions are available for demanding applications.

Final Thoughts

Bearings are vital to motor reliability. By choosing the right type and practicing proper maintenance, industries can extend motor life and reduce unplanned downtime. Bombay Engineering Syndicate ensures that every CG Power motor supplied is equipped with suitable bearings for its intended application and provides guidance on their upkeep.

Contact us today for expert advice on motor bearing selection and maintenance.

By: Manish Chandrani; +919825014977