Bearing Failure Mode Tight Fits

Failure Mode – Excessively Tight Fits

Bearing Failure Mode Tight Fits

Description/Cause# 1

Brinelling. This is caused by excessive loading on the bearing. In this particular case
there were brinell marks arrayed equally spaced 360 degrees around the inner ring.

Description/Cause# 2

Wide ball path. This is typically caused by excessive interference fits. In this outer
ring rotating application the outer ring had a similar but slightly narrower ball path.

Solution

Modify dimensions and tolerances on housing/shaft to allow slight play in the
bearing even after the bearing is installed. Also, ensure that the housing/shaft are
manufactured to the specified tolerances. (See Mounting and Fitting guide in the
Technical Information section for suggested tolerances.)