Why is Rolling Bearing Rust Prevention Important?

Sep 28, 2023

Bearing rust prevention is a critical industrial maintenance measure designed to ensure the durability and functionality of bearings during storage, transportation, and use. Since the surface material of bearings is usually metal, they are highly susceptible to corrosion and rust. Corrosion not only weakens the bearing but also has a serious impact on its accuracy and life. Therefore, taking effective anti-rust measures is crucial to protect the normal operation of bearings.

The necessity of bearing rust prevention

As a key mechanical component, bearings are widely used in various mechanical equipment, such as motors, automobiles, aerospace, etc. The necessity of bearing rust prevention is mainly reflected in the following aspects:

Ensure the accuracy and life of the bearing

Rust will cause damage to the surface of the bearing, affecting its accuracy and life. Effective anti-rust measures can protect bearings from corrosion and extend their service life.

Prevent contamination of other components 

Bearing corrosion will produce rust and other substances, which may contaminate other mechanical components and affect the normal operation of the equipment.

Ensure the equipment's normal operation

Bearings are a key component in many mechanical equipment. If the bearings are rusted, it will affect the normal operation of the equipment and lead to stagnation and failure of the production line.

The picture above is the imperial four-row tapered roller bearing BT4B 328842 customized by FV for customers used in rolling mills. This bearing adopts a double-sided seal design and is a sealed tapered roller bearing, which effectively prevents the intrusion of foreign matter and is conducive to the bearing's rust prevention.

Methods to prevent rust of bearings

Bearing rust prevention methods include the following aspects:

Keep the environment dry

Humidity is one of the main causes of bearing rust. Therefore, keeping the bearing storage and using the environment dry is important. Dehumidifiers or desiccants can be used around warehouses and equipment to reduce humidity.

Anti-rust surface coating

Coating anti-rust oil, paint, or anti-rust wax on the surface of the bearing can form a protective film to prevent moisture and oxygen from penetrating, thereby preventing rust.

Vacuum packaging for rust prevention

Packing bearings in a low-oxygen or oxygen-free environment can prevent oxidation and rust. The disadvantage of this method is that it requires special equipment and operations, and the cost is relatively high.

Metal heat treatment for anti-rust

By heating the bearing to a certain temperature and maintaining it for a period, a dense oxide film is formed on the surface, which can effectively improve its anti-rust ability.

Precautions for bearing rust prevention

When carrying out bearing rust prevention, you need to pay attention to the following points:

Ensure the effectiveness of anti-rust measures

Choose appropriate methods and materials to ensure their effectiveness. At the same time, the anti-rust effect should be checked regularly, and problems should be dealt with promptly.

Pay attention to the storage and use environment

keep the bearing storage and use environment clean and dry, and avoid contact with corrosive substances.

Regular maintenance and upkeep

Clean, lubricate, and maintain the bearings regularly, and promptly detect and deal with existing rust and wear problems.

Pay attention to operating specifications

When carrying out bearing rust prevention and operation, relevant operating specifications and standards must be followed to avoid artificial damage and pollution.

Purchase high-quality bearings

Choosing high-quality bearing products can effectively reduce the risk of corrosion. At the same time, when purchasing, pay attention to the manufacturer's reputation and quality assurance system to ensure high-quality products.

FV supplies professional metallurgical rolling bearings supplier (cylindrical roller bearings and spherical roller bearings). If you have any questions, please consult us.

The picture above shows a spherical roller bearing with MB brass cage.

Summary

Bearing anti-rust is a very important part of industrial maintenance, aiming to protect bearings from the effects of rust. When carrying out bearing rust prevention, it is necessary to choose suitable anti-rust methods and materials and pay attention to the storage and use environment. At the same time, attention should be paid to operating specifications and maintenance, and problems should be discovered and dealt with promptly. Purchasing high-quality bearing products is also one of the key factors in preventing rust. By comprehensively applying the above measures and methods, the accuracy and life of the bearing can be effectively improved, and the normal operation of the equipment can be ensured.