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What is False Brinelling?
False brinelling is a form of fretting wear that occurs between rolling elements and raceways. When a bearing is stationary a lubricant film cannot develop between the elements and raceways resulting in metal to metal contact.
What Causes False Brinelling?
- False brinelling is a bearing damage caused by fretting.
- Vibrations acting on the bearings while in a stationary state.
- Oscillation and vibrations acting on non-rotating equipment.
- Poor handling of equipment while in transportation.
- Poor lubrication.
If vibrations cause rolling elements to move, it could lead to indentations along the raceways which looks similar to the damage seen in true brinelling from excessive loads.
How to Prevent False Brinelling?
- Securing equipment while transporting.
- Packing the inner and outer rings separately while transporting.
- Conducting regular maintenance checks to ensure there is sufficient lubrication.
Difference between True and False Brinelling?
Although true brinelling looks similar to false brinelling, false brinelling occurs through vibrations vs an excessive load. The damage pattern in false brinelling has the appearance of denting at roller spacing. Close examination reveals wear at roller spacing rather than the original surface texture which is still visible when denting occurs.
False brinelling at roller spacing on a tapered roller bearing cone.