Precision control of motor plain bearings: the key to ensuring stable operation and extending service life

Update:28-11-2024
Summary:

1. The influence of machining accuracy on the performance of motor plain bearings
The processing accuracy of sliding bearings mainly includes dimensional accuracy, shape accuracy and position accuracy. Dimensional accuracy requires that the dimensions of key parts such as the inner hole, outer diameter and end face of the bearing must be strictly controlled within the design tolerance range to ensure good coordination with the shaft and bearing seat. Shape accuracy is related to the roundness, cylindricity, etc. of the inner and outer surfaces of the bearing. Deviations in these parameters will directly affect the smooth operation of the bearing. Positional accuracy refers to the relative positional relationship between the various components of the bearing, such as the parallelism and coaxiality of the end faces of the inner and outer rings. Their accuracy is crucial to reducing vibration and noise.

Any slight deviation during the machining process, such as tool wear, insufficient machine tool accuracy, or improper setting of machining parameters, may lead to a decrease in bearing accuracy. These deviations will be significantly amplified during high-speed operation, causing uneven contact between the bearing and the shaft, increasing friction and wear, ultimately leading to increased bearing temperature, increased vibration, and even bearing failure in severe cases.

2. The impact of assembly accuracy on motor performance
Assembly accuracy refers to various accuracy indicators of the sliding bearing when it is installed on the motor, including the matching clearance between the bearing and the shaft, the installation position accuracy of the bearing seat, and the adjustment of the preload force. A reasonable matching clearance can ensure that the bearing has sufficient lubrication during operation, and can effectively prevent excessive axial and radial movement, maintaining the stable operation of the motor. The installation position accuracy of the bearing seat directly affects the stress state of the bearing. Improper installation will cause the bearing to bear uneven loads and accelerate wear. Reasonable setting of preload force can help eliminate bearing clearance, improve stiffness and reduce vibration.

Negligence during assembly, such as not following the correct assembly sequence, using improper tools, or not performing necessary cleaning and lubrication steps, may result in substandard assembly accuracy. These problems may not be obvious at the initial stage of motor startup, but as the running time increases, problems such as increased vibration, louder noise, and abnormal temperature rise will gradually be exposed, seriously affecting the performance and life of the motor.

3. Precision control strategy and practice
To ensure the processing and assembly accuracy of motor plain bearings, the following measures should be taken:

Improve the level of processing technology: Use high-precision machine tools and advanced processing technologies, such as CNC machining, precision grinding, etc., to ensure the processing accuracy of bearing parts.
Strengthen quality inspection: Implement a strict quality management system and use high-precision testing equipment such as three-dimensional coordinate measuring machines to conduct comprehensive inspections of bearing parts to ensure that all dimensional and shape accuracy meet design requirements.
Optimize the assembly process: Develop detailed assembly operation instructions and use special tools and assembly fixtures to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the assembly process.
Strengthen training and education: Provide professional training to operators to enhance their understanding of the importance of bearing precision control and ensure that each employee is proficient in correct processing and assembly skills.