How to effectively check whether the bearing is overheated

In industrial production and mechanical equipment maintenance, bearing overheating is a danger signal that cannot be ignored. According to statistics, over half of the cases of premature bearing failure are closely related to overheating issues. Abnormal temperature not only indicates the possibility of bearing failure, but also serves as a warning of potential hazards in the entire equipment system. Mastering the correct inspection methods enables timely detection of problems, avoiding expensive equipment damage and production interruptions.

Why do bearings overheat?
Understanding the cause of overheating is the first step in effective inspection. Common factors causing abnormal temperature rise in bearings include:

Insufficient lubrication or improper selection of lubricants

Improper installation leads to excessive tightness or deviation

Excessive load or speed beyond the design range

Sealing failure leads to contamination entering

Internal damage such as wear on rolling elements or raceways

High ambient temperature or cooling system malfunction

Practical methods for checking bearing temperature
1. Touch inspection method
The simplest and most direct method is to touch the bearing housing with bare hands. Under normal circumstances, it is acceptable for the bearing temperature to be 20-50 ℃ higher than the ambient temperature. If the hand can be in contact for a long time (about 3-5 seconds), it usually indicates that the temperature is below 60 ℃; If only for brief contact (1-2 seconds), the temperature may be between 60-70 ℃; If it cannot be touched at all, it is likely that the dangerous temperature has already exceeded 70 ℃.

Safety reminder: Before conducting tactile inspection, make sure that the equipment has been stopped to avoid injury caused by moving parts; For areas that may be at risk of high temperatures, it is recommended to quickly test them with the back of your hand.

2. Infrared thermometer detection
Non contact infrared thermometer is an ideal tool for modern industrial testing. Easy to use:

Align the surface of the bearing housing

Maintain appropriate measurement distance and angle

Read temperature values
This method is safe, accurate, capable of detecting bearing temperature during motion, and can record data for subsequent analysis and comparison.

3. Thermal imaging technology
For critical equipment or difficult to access bearing parts, thermal imaging cameras provide a more comprehensive solution. Thermal imaging can not only display the highest temperature point, but also present the temperature distribution of the entire bearing area, which helps to detect abnormal hotspots and temperature gradients, and warn potential faults in advance.

4. Built in temperature sensor
High end equipment or important transmission parts usually install permanent temperature sensors (such as PT100 thermistor). These sensors provide continuous and real-time temperature monitoring, which can be linked with the control system to automatically alarm or shut down when the temperature exceeds the standard, providing the highest level of protection for critical equipment.

Establish a scientific temperature monitoring system
Effective temperature checks should not be a random behavior, but should be part of a regular maintenance system:

Establish baseline data: Record the temperature range of new or overhauled bearings under normal operating conditions

Set alarm threshold: Set multi-level alarm temperature according to the device manufacturer's recommendations and working environment

Regular comparative analysis: Compare each detection data with historical records, focusing on temperature trends rather than single absolute values

Correlation vibration analysis: Combining temperature data with vibration analysis to obtain a more comprehensive assessment of bearing condition

Response measures after discovering overheating
When bearing overheating is detected, systematic processing steps should be taken:

Immediately assess whether shutdown is necessary to avoid equipment damage

Check the lubrication condition, including the type, quantity, and contamination of the lubricant

Check if the installation is correct and if the clearance is appropriate

Assess whether the load and operating conditions exceed the design range

Check if the sealing system and cooling device are working properly

If the cause cannot be determined, consideration should be given to dismantling and inspecting the internal condition

Conclusion
Bearing temperature inspection is an important component of preventive maintenance for equipment. Through regular and systematic temperature monitoring, we can not only detect potential faults in a timely manner, but also gain a deeper understanding of the operating status of the equipment. Mastering the correct inspection methods and establishing a scientific monitoring system can significantly improve equipment reliability, reduce unexpected shutdowns, and extend the service life of bearings. Remember: when it comes to bearing overheating issues, prevention is always more cost-effective than repair.