How to inspect a bearing for reuse

Before removing a bearing, carefully examine its position to see if it was properly installed. Then, examine the lubricant. Rub
a sample between thumb and forefinger to check for metal particles or contamination. Then remove the bearing and wash it
according to recommended procedures. If no major damage is evident, then check for the following types of subtle damage.

Damage to the race

These dents result from the rollers Dents like this usually come from Under load, a hairline crack like this Always check for faint grooves in
“hammering” against the race. It’s mishandling. The bearing should will lead to serious problems. the race. This bearing should not
called brinelling. be discarded. Discard the bearing. be reused.

Regular patterns of etching in Light pitting comes from con- In this more advanced case of Pitting eventually leads to
the race are from corrosion. This taminants being pressed into the pitting, you can see how the race “spalling,” a condition where the
bearing should be replaced. race. Discard the bearing. has been damaged. metal falls away in large chunks.

If corrosion stains haven’t etched Line etching looks like cracks. If the This condition results from an Discoloration is a result of over-
into the surface, remove them with etching can be removed, the bear- improperly grounded arc welder. heating. Even a lightly burned
an oil-soaked lint-free cloth. ing can be reused. Replace the bearing. bearing should be replaced.

Damage to the rollers

This is a normally worn bearing. This bearing is worn unevenly. When just the end of a roller is Grooves like this are often matched
If it doesn’t have too much play, Notice the stripes. It shouldn’t scored, it’s from excessive by grooves in the race (above).
it can be reused. be reused. preload. Discard the bearing. Discard the bearing.

When corrosion etches into the Any damage that causes low This is a more advanced case of In this “spalled” roller, the metal has
surface of a roller or race, the spots in the metal, renders the pitting. Under load, it will rapidly actually begun to flake away from
bearing should be discarded. bearing useless. lead to “spalling.” the surface.

If light corrosion stains can be This is “line etching” from When “fluting” shows up on the Discoloration comes from overheat-
removed with an oil-soaked cloth, corrosion, not a crack. If you can race, it’ll appear on the rollers too. ing. When you see it, play it safe
the bearing can be reused. remove it, reuse the bearing. Discard the bearing. and discard the bearing.

® SKF is a registered trademark of SKF USA Inc.

The contents of this publication are the copyright of the publisher and may not be reproduced (even extracts) unless prior written permission is granted.
Every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication but no liability can be accepted for any loss or damage whether direct, indirect or consequential arising out of use of the information contained herein.
© 1993 SKF USA Inc. Publication A100-632 (1M/VP 9/2005) Version 9/2005 Printed in U.S.A.