Bearing Lubrication Quickly Becoming a Sticky Situation

Improper and poor greasing is the cause of 60 to 80 percent of bearing failures in the field. Unfortunately, many of these failures are initiated by the bearing manufacturer or bearing supplier. The global manufacturing base of bearing manufacturers has led to limitations in their ability to supply specialty greases in the bearing directly from the plant. Therefore, a cleaning and relubrication step takes place stateside. “This can become a problem if the relubrication process is performed incorrectly.” states President and Chief Engineer Chris Napoleon. “Our Bearing Inspection department has seen a significant increase in demand for grease evaluation. We’ve found issues with counterfeit greases, insufficient grease quantity and deteriorated grease properties resulting from improper cleaning processes. All of these issues originate from a lack of respect for the importance of proper bearing cleaning and relubrication practices.”

Fortunately, NES understands the value of bearing re-greasing practices. “It just isn’t feasible for bearing manufacturers or distributors to stock bearings with specialty greases in them. From aerospace to agricultural applications, our custom bearing manufacturing department is called upon to correctly re-grease bearings with specialty greases to work in demanding applications,” says Napoleon. “Our customers recognize the need for attention to detail in even the simplest of bearing modifications such as re-greasing.”

Napoleon Engineering Services experienced engineers provide a number of re-greasing techniques that can substantially increase bearing performance and life. Offering an array of greases for a variety of applications we take the guess work out of re-greasing, saving time and money. In addition to our complete line of greases we also offer dry film and specialty lubricants for bearings in unique applications.

In addition to our comprehensive greasing and re-greasing programs we also offer a variety of additional precision and simple modification services that will enhance bearing performance. Overlooking the importance of bearing lubrication can place the success your application in jeopardy. Do not become a victim of poor or incorrect lubrication, a problem that can be resolved through the knowledge of NES and our experienced staff.