Thin-walled angular contact ball bearings are widely used in precision equipment like machine tool spindles, robotics, and compact motors. Their slim design and high load capacity make them ideal for space-limited, high-performance applications. Yet, even the best bearings can fail — often due to preventable causes.
One of the most common failure modes is fatigue spalling, where small pits form on the raceways or balls after prolonged use. This is a natural result of material fatigue under repeated stress. While expected at end-of-life, it can happen early if the bearing is overloaded or poorly maintained.
Wear is another frequent issue. When dust, metal debris, or moisture enters the bearing, it scratches the surfaces, increasing clearance and reducing accuracy. This is especially harmful in high-speed applications. Poor or degraded lubrication makes it worse, leading to faster deterioration.
Damage from improper handling or installation is surprisingly common. Using force during mounting — such as hammering — can cause dents or brinelling on the raceways. Even slight misalignment creates uneven loading, accelerating wear and shortening service life.
In severe cases, bearings may develop cracks or fractures in the rings, balls, or cage. These failures are often sudden and caused by shock loads, overloading, or material defects. Once cracking begins, failure can follow quickly.
Seizure — when the bearing locks up — usually results from a combination of factors: lack of lubrication, overheating, contamination, or incorrect internal clearance. Without proper oil or grease, friction rises, heat builds, and components bind.
Research shows most premature failures are avoidable. Lubrication problems account for over a third of cases, followed by overload, contamination, and poor installation. The good news? With proper care, these issues can be minimized.
At Beining Technology, we specialize in high-precision spindle bearings built for durability and reliability. Our designs focus on real-world performance, with strict quality control and optimized geometry to resist common failure modes.
For engineers who demand precision and long service life, the right bearing — and the right maintenance — make all the difference.
