What are the methods for checking pump bearings?

The performance and lifespan of your pump depends on the performance of the pump bearings. The right pump bearings can improve the performance and reliability of your equipment and extend its service life. Here's how to inspect pump bearings. Also, learn about the different types and applications of pump bearings. A properly lubricated pump will boost its production and reliability. Ultimately, the right pump bearings can ensure your business's success. Here's a look at some of the advantages of bearings for pumps.

Inspecting pump bearings
Before starting maintenance work on a pump, it is important to thoroughly inspect the bearings. For example, check the mounting pads for corrosion, wear, or scoring. If they are dirty, clean them with solvent before continuing. You should also inspect the shaft for signs of corrosion or wear. If there are any cracks or breaks, repair them. Inspecting pump bearings also involves repairing any leaks or water in the bearing oil.

To perform the inspection, use a magnifying glass to examine the race of the bearing. If the race of the bearing is highly frosted, there are likely a number of contaminants present. If the bearing is discolored, it may be due to shaft currents, dirt, or debris. These particles may appear as rough cratering. To identify if the contamination is causing the wear, contact a professional bearing repair service.

Types
There are different types of pump bearings, each with its own set of benefits and limitations. A double-row angular contact ball bearing is a common choice for pumps with minimal thrust. Its high shoulder allows for large steel balls and features an optimal balance between internal clearance and radial stiffness. These bearings are also known as matched sets and are often used in tandem with one another. They feature low friction and high speed, and can resist radial and gyroscopic forces.

Pump bearings may be rigid or self-aligning. The former automatically adjusts to the angular position of the shaft. Babbitted bearings are designed with a spherical fit between the sleeve and housing, while rolling element bearings have a spherically-ground outer race. Self-aligning bearings are commonly used in larger pumps, and are available in various sizes.

Applications
A wide variety of pump applications can make use of pump bearings. They are designed to perform well in a variety of different conditions. Here are a few examples. Kingsbury pump bearings can perform well in a variety of pump applications. Their design also simplifies pump housing designs. They can also be used in high-speed pump drive applications. Listed below are a few of the most common pump bearings. This information should help you make an informed decision about which bearings to use in a particular application.

Angular-contact ball bearings are the most common type of bearing used in pumps. These can accommodate reversing thrust loads and provide adequate shaft support. They typically feature a robust cage to promote long-term mechanical seal life and resist destructive vibration forces. These bearings are often used in American National Standards Institute standard centrifugal pumps. They are made from robust steel and can withstand high temperatures and contaminated environments.

Lubrication
The first step in ensuring the reliability of pump bearings is to choose the appropriate lubricant. There are two basic types of lubricants: mineral oils and synthetic oils. They differ in price and viscosity, and both have distinct advantages and disadvantages. Both types must be relatively clean during service, which requires proper lubrication. The lubricant should be selected with the aim of improving reliability as well as minimizing costs. The viscosity of lubricants is the primary factor in protecting rolling-element bearings. ISO Grade 68 allows higher operating loads than VG 32.

The operating temperature of the flinger disc is about 9 F lower than the direct contact temperature, which results in a 25 percent reduction in oxidation. The pump bearings can be operated at lower temperatures without causing deterioration of the lubricant by ensuring that the flinger discs are submerged in oil three-eighths of an inch. An oil mist lubrication system distributes small particles of oil in the bearing housing.