Correct Handling Extends Spindle Bearing Life
Super Precision Bearings are exceptionally precise components, and careful handling and installation practices are essential to getting the best possible performance out of them. As components manufactured to incredibly tight tolerances and made from the absolute highest quality materials, incorrect handling can cause a litany of problems...
For example, NSK worked with one large automotive production plant which was experiencing frequent machine tool spindle failures, resulting in unplanned downtime and high maintenance costs. The plant’s spindle bearings were failing every two weeks, requiring constant replacement and placing significant strain on maintenance resources. To address this issue, the customer asked NSK to investigate the root cause of the failures.
NSK engineers conducted a comprehensive investigation which revealed that the primary cause of failure was incorrect handling of the super precision bearings during mounting and dismounting. Poor understanding of correct grease refilling practices was also a factor.
In response, one of our engineers delivered targeted super precision bearing training to the plant’s maintenance team. The training focused on correct mounting and dismounting methods, proper handling procedures, and optimised grease replenishment practices. Once the revised processes were implemented, no further bearing-related issues were reported.
As a direct result, bearing life increased from two weeks to six months, delivering significant cost savings, improved spindle reliability, and reduced downtime for the customer.
"Our expert engineers are always happy to work with customers in order to make sure they get the very best from their products."
Andy Kemble, NSK Europe’s Product Manager for Super Precision Bearings.
‘Our Super Precision Bearings are incredibly high-quality components,’ said Andy Kemble, NSK Europe’s Product Manager for Super Precision Bearings. ‘But you need to treat them carefully if you want them to operate to their full potential. Used correctly our parts provide the perfect solution for equipment requiring high running accuracy or high rotational speed, and our expert engineers are always happy to work with customers in order to make absolutely sure that they get the very best from their products.’
NSK Super Precision Bearings are made from ultra-clean steel and offer outstanding durability and resistance to wear, resulting in significantly extended service life. High-accuracy rolling elements, low-noise performance and a range of cage materials to suit high-speed applications all combine to deliver tangible benefits to customers, including improved spindle reliability, reduced downtime, lower maintenance costs and consistent performance.
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