A lack of lubrication is the #1 cause of bearing failures!
It is therefore essential to identify lubrication problems upstream (under-lubrication or over-lubrication).
Ultrasonic lubrication
Greasing the bearings at regular intervals does not give the best results; it is better to only lubricate them when they need it.
in terms of conditional lubrication, ultrasound represents the best technology. The friction of the bearings produces ultrasounds, thus their measurements make it possible to detect:
- Early bearing failures
- A lack of lubrication
- Excess lubrication
Here is a method that can be used during your rounds:
- Record the quietest ultrasonic level and set it as a reference point
- Test regularly to notice increases in decibels
- When the ultrasonic level reaches an internally defined threshold (for example, an increase of 8 dB), lubricate your bearings
- Stop when decibel level drops to baseline
Note:
Be careful, excessive grease also increases the level of ultrasonic noise.
| Decibels (dB) | Lubricate? |
|---|---|
| Normal | No |
| Higher than usual | Add. Stop when ultrasound returns to normal levels. |