How to Tell If Your Roller Bearings Are Worn?

June 29, 2025

Roller bearings play a vital role in the smooth operation of many machines. When they become damaged, it can lead to serious issues for both the equipment and the products it produces. Similar to ball bearings, roller bearings are designed to support loads while reducing friction. Over time, they may experience wear and tear that necessitates repair or replacement. In this article, we'll explore the most common causes and types of roller bearing damage, helping you better understand how to extend the life of your machinery.

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What Are the Most Common Types of Roller Bearing Damage?

Every year, around 10 billion bearings are produced globally, with most lasting longer than the machines they're installed in. A small percentage is replaced before failure as part of routine maintenance. Only about 0.5% of bearings are replaced due to severe damage or total failure. Here are the most frequent causes of roller bearing damage:

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Common Types of Roller Bearing Damage (1)

  • Deformations: Roller bearings can deform due to various factors, including excessive heat, which may cause metal flow and lead to rib face deformation in the bearing cones. This distortion can cause rollers to misalign, eventually leading to a complete lock-up.
  • Fatigue Spalling: This occurs when the surface of the bearing begins to break down. Inclusion spalling happens due to oxides or hard particles in the steel, while point surface spalling results from debris exceeding the thickness of the lubrication film. In both cases, metal starts to flake off the raceway.
  • Handling Damage: Rough handling during transport or installation can cause dents, nicks, or raised metal areas on the bearing surface, especially near the edges of the rollers.
  • Cage Damage: Bearings that are dropped or improperly installed often suffer cage damage. This can cause the rollers to skew or bind, and the cage ring might become obstructed during operation or installation.
  • Preload/Overload Damage: Excessive preload or heavy loads can cause various forms of damage. Too much preload may lead to cone bore contraction, while heavy loads can create high temperatures and reduce the effectiveness of the lubricant, leading to full race width fatigue spalling.

When Should You Replace Your Roller Bearing?

Determining the right time to replace a roller bearing can be challenging, as the period between initial damage and complete failure varies greatly. High-speed bearings can fail within seconds, while low-speed ones may take months to show signs of breakdown. Early detection of damage is crucial to prevent further harm to the machine and its components. By identifying early warning signs—such as unusual noise, vibration, or temperature changes—you can schedule replacements during regular maintenance, avoiding costly and unexpected downtime. Inspectors should closely monitor these indicators and address any underlying issues promptly to maintain system integrity.

Why Choose Emerson Bearing for Your Roller Bearing Needs?

With over 50 years of experience, Emerson Bearing has built a strong reputation as a trusted supplier of high-quality roller and ball bearings. We carry leading brands such as BOWER, FAG, FERSA, IKO, INA, NACHI, NSK, NTN, RBC, TORRINGTON, URB, and ZNL, ensuring we have the right product for every application. At Emerson Bearing, we understand that each customer has unique requirements. Our team of experts provides personalized guidance to help you select the best bearings for your specific needs. We work closely with our clients to ensure satisfaction with both our products and services. Our companies, Emerson Bearing and Action Bearing, serve customers across the globe. If you're looking for reliable bearings or want to learn more about our capabilities, contact us today and let us help you find the perfect solution.

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